The Red Pierrot (Talicada nyseus), is a small yet striking butterfly belonging to the family Lycaenidae often found fluttering around gardens, edges of forests and open woodlands. It is renowned for its vibrant coloration and delicate beauty.
Despite its diminutive size, the Red Pierrot commands attention and fascination due to its unique appearance and intriguing behaviors. It is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia.
It prefers habitats that provide an abundance of its host plants, primarily the succulents Kalanchoe. It sits with its wings closed to display the bright markings of its undersides. It fearlessness, weak flight and markings indicate that it is a protected butterfly, which is peculiar considering that its host plants are not known to contain any sequestrable toxins.
Shot in Coorg,Karnataka, September 2025. © Dr.Bishan Monnappa
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