Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting world of types of butterflies in Madagascar!
With so many species of butterflies, Madagascar is home to an incredible array of these colorful and captivating creatures.
From the iridescent blues and greens of the Morpho butterfly to the striking oranges and yellows of the Papilio monteirus.
The variety of shapes, sizes, and colors of the butterflies in Madagascar is sure to take your breath away.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some popular types of butterflies in Madagascar and discover why they are so beloved by locals and tourists alike.
1. Mascarene Policeman
First, on our list of types of butterflies in Madagascar, The Mascarene Policeman (Tekliades ramanatek) is a unique type of butterfly found in Madagascar.
These large, beautiful butterflies have yellow and black wings with purple patches in the center. The Mascarene Policeman can often be seen in gardens and woodlands throughout Madagascar.
These fascinating creatures measure up to five inches across and are active during the day. They primarily feed on nectar from flowers such as Hibiscus and Lantana.
The larvae of the Mascarene Policeman are brown and white striped and live on the underside of leaves.
The Mascarene Policeman is an important part of the ecosystem in Madagascar. They provide an essential pollination service, transferring pollen between flowers and helping to ensure the reproduction of many plant species.
As such, they play an important role in the health of Madagascar’s ecosystems and its biodiversity. In addition to their importance in pollination, the Mascarene Policeman is also admired for its striking beauty.
Its colorful wings make it a popular sight among nature lovers, who often find them fluttering among the blooms in Madagascar’s lush forests and gardens.
2. Mascarene Clouded Flat
Madagascar is home to a wide variety of butterflies, and the Mascarene Clouded Flat (Tagiades insularis) is one of the most beautiful species. This butterfly is found in eastern Madagascar, typically inhabiting wet coastal forests.
The Mascarene Clouded Flat is a small butterfly with a wingspan of around 2 cm. Its striking white and black coloration, with red spots near its center, makes it easily identifiable.
This species also features a unique tail at the end of its hindwings, which gives it an unmistakable silhouette in flight.
Like most other types of butterflies in Madagascar, the Mascarene Clouded Flat feeds on nectar from flowers.
In addition, the larvae feed on grasses, giving them their distinctive white and black patterning.
Although they are not endangered, the Mascarene Clouded Flat has suffered due to habitat loss. As deforestation threatens their habitat, conservation efforts have become increasingly important. It is essential that we take action to protect these stunningly beautiful butterflies before it’s too late.
3. Madagascan Dark Blue Pansy
The Madagascan Dark Blue Pansy (Junonia oenone ssp. epiclelia) is a beautiful butterfly in Madagascar. It has a black body with yellowish-orange wing margins and a distinctive deep blue hue to its wings.
This butterfly species is relatively rare and is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to its declining population.
4. Danaid Eggfly
The Danaid Eggfly (Hypolimnas misippus) is a type of butterfly in Madagascar and is widely recognized for its unique coloration.
This butterfly has a characteristic yellow and black pattern on its wings, with a striking orange-red spot on the hindwings.
They can be seen flying around the forests of Madagascar and are an exciting sight for any nature enthusiast.
5. Banded Commodore
The Banded Commodore, or Precis andremiaja, is a type of butterfly in Madagascar. It is a beautiful species that can be easily identified by its black and orange bands across its wings.
Its distinctive coloration makes it an eye-catching addition to the diverse array of butterflies in the country.
The Banded Commodore is often found near dense vegetation and woodlands, where it can be seen flying gracefully in search of food. Its unique and vibrant colors make it a lovely sight for any nature lover who visits Madagascar.
6. Satyrs, Morphos, and Allies
Madagascar is home to a wide variety of butterfly species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Among these butterflies in Madagascar are the beautiful and diverse Satyrs, Morphos, and Allies (Subfamily Satyrinae).
These butterflies are found throughout Madagascar and often inhabit moist, shady forests and jungles.
Satyrs, Morphos, and Allies can be identified by their characteristic eyespots on the wings and size (adults typically measure 1-3 inches).
They are also known for their bright colors, ranging from deep blues and purples to bright yellows and oranges.
Many of these butterflies in Madagascar feed on nectar from various flowers and fruits, but some species also feed on sap or rotten fruit.
In addition to providing food for the butterflies, these flowers and fruits also provide shelter for them to rest or lay eggs.
The diversity of this subfamily of butterflies is remarkable and adds to the beauty of Madagascar’s wildlife. With a little patience and effort, you may even be lucky to observe these beautiful creatures in the wild.
7. Alpines, Arctics, Nymphs, and Satyrs
Madagascar is home to an amazing array of butterflies, each boasting unique colors and patterns. Among these types of butterflies in Madagascar, the Alpines, Arctics, Nymphs, and Satyrs (Tribe Satyrini) are some of the most spectacular.
These diverse butterflies are found in both lowland and highland habitats throughout the island, and their vivid colors and intricate patterns make them particularly stunning.
The Alpine butterfly is a large species that typically has a wingspan of around 70-90mm. It is mostly white with distinctive yellow markings on the forewings.
There are also some subspecies of Alpine which have black spots or stripes instead of yellow markings.
The Arctic butterfly is a much smaller species with a 25-30mm wingspan. This species is quite plain compared to the Alpine, having dark brown wings with small white markings on the edges.
The Nymph butterfly is medium-sized with a wingspan of around 55-65mm. It is usually light brown with black spots and lines on its wings.
The Satyr (Tribe Satyrini) is a medium-sized butterfly that ranges from 45 to 65mm. It is usually orange or yellow with distinctive black stripes and spots.
These butterflies in Madagascar provide an amazing display of colors and patterns. Whether you’re looking for the Alpine’s bright colors or the Nymph’s subtle elegance, you’re sure to find something you love in Madagascar’s array of beautiful butterflies!
8. African Common Evening Brown
The African Common Evening Brown (Melanitis Leda ssp. leda) is a stunning butterfly species found in Madagascar.
This species has a unique brown coloration with distinctive black markings across the wings, making it easy to spot in its natural habitat.
The wingspan of this species ranges from 3-4 centimeters, making it one of the smaller butterfly species in Madagascar.
African Common Evening Brown types of butterflies in Madagascar are most commonly found in open grasslands and forest edges, where they can find plenty of nectar and other food sources.
9. Common Leopard
Madagascar is a beautiful and unique place; its wildlife is no exception. One of Madagascar’s most colorful types of butterflies is the Common Leopard (Phalanta phalantha). This vibrant butterfly is found in deciduous and evergreen forests throughout the country.
The Common Leopard has an orange-brown upper surface, with prominent black spots on the wings and white veins running through them.
Its underside is bright yellow, and its antennae are black. This butterfly has an average wingspan of about 2 inches (5 cm).
It typically feeds on nectar from flowers and shrubs and can be seen flying during the day, sometimes in large groups.
The Common Leopard is an important pollinator in Madagascar, helping to fertilize plants and ensure a healthy ecosystem.
It also provides food for other animals, such as lizards, frogs, and bird species. As such, this species plays an integral role in Madagascar’s ecology.
If you ever find yourself in Madagascar, make sure to take a look around for these beautiful creatures. Their bold colors and playful behavior will surely add a splash of color to your day!
10. Plain Tiger Butterfly
The Plain Tiger Butterfly (Danaus chrysippus) is one of the most common types of butterflies in Madagascar.
With a bright orange and black coloration, these striking butterflies can be seen flying around during the day in search of nectar from flowers.
They have a unique wing pattern with white spots on the edges of their wings and a striking yellow stripe running down their back.
These butterflies in Madagascar are important pollinators for the island’s diverse array of plants, helping to keep the ecosystem healthy.
11. African Leopard
The African Leopard (Phalanta phalantha ssp. aethiopica) is one of Madagascar’s many types of butterflies. This species is characterized by its striking black, yellow, and white pattern on its wings and can be seen flying around the tropical forests of Madagascar.
It is a small butterfly, typically with a wingspan of 2 to 3 cm.
12. African Monarch
The African Monarch (Danaus Chrysippus ssp. Orientis) is one of Madagascar’s most breathtaking butterflies.
This species belongs to the family Nymphalidae, which includes many other colorful species like the Monarch and Painted Lady butterflies.
The African Monarch can be identified by its bright yellow and orange wings, with black veins that create an intricate pattern.
The wingspan can range from 7-8 cm, making it a relatively small butterfly. Its white patch also distinguishes it near the center of its wings, which has a red or black dot in the middle.
The African Monarch can be found in areas of Madagascar, such as the coastal regions and the highlands, where it prefers areas with lots of open grasslands and shrublands.
As an inhabitant of these areas, it often feasts on nectar from flowers such as Milkweed, Aster, and Verbena.
The African Monarch is an important pollinator of these plants and provides food for local birds and other predators.
It is a keystone species in its environment, meaning that its removal or destruction could hugely impact the area’s biodiversity. Its beautiful wings provide a colorful addition to this beautiful country’s ecosystem.
13. Cornelians and Playboys
Cornelians and Playboys, both of the genus Deudorix, are some of Madagascar’s most beautiful butterflies.
These stunningly colored butterflies can be seen in many parts of the island, bringing vibrant colors to its landscapes.
Their distinctive patterned wings feature white and orange-yellow shades, creating an eye-catching effect.
14. Citrus Swallowtail
Next on the list, The Citrus Swallowtail (Papilio demodocus) is an impressive butterfly found in Madagascar. With its striking yellow and black wings, this species is a stunning sight to behold.
The Citrus Swallowtail is often seen near open grasslands and woodlands, where it feeds on nectar and citrus fruits.
These butterflies in Madagascar also have a wide range of habitats, from lowland rainforests to highland mountains. As such, the Citrus Swallowtail is a common sight in many areas of Madagascar.
15. Skippers Butterflies
Next on the list are Skippers (Family Hesperiidae), a type of butterfly in Madagascar. Madagascar is home to a diverse array of butterfly species, including a variety of skippers.
Skippers (Family Hesperiidae) are small, fast-flying butterflies with highly specialized forelegs that are used to grip flower heads and leaves during feeding.
These butterflies are typically found in meadows and fields, where they flutter about in search of nectar.
In Madagascar, skipper species include the aptly named Brown-veined Skipper, Marsh Red Skipper, Beautiful Skipper, Marbled Skipper, Red-brown Flat, and Large Branded Skipper.
These varieties feature vibrant colors ranging from warm oranges and reds to cool blues and grays. Each species’ intricate patterns and hues add to the charm of Madagascar’s remarkable butterfly diversity.
Skipper butterflies play an important role in Madagascar’s natural environment as pollinators, helping to spread pollen between flowers and ensuring the successful reproduction of various plants.
As you explore Madagascar’s lush landscapes, keep an eye out for these unique and captivating creatures!
16. Grass Skippers
Grass skippers (Subfamily Hesperiinae) are a type of butterfly in Madagascar. These colorful butterflies range from small to large and have wings with distinctive spots or stripes.
These butterflies in Madagascar can often be seen fluttering around grassy areas or rivers, feeding on flowers and other nectar sources.
Grass skippers make up an important part of Madagascar’s butterfly population, adding an extra touch of color and life to the island’s natural beauty.
17. Small Malagasy Swift
The small Malagasy swift (Borbo havei) is a vibrant butterfly species on Madagascar’s island. This tiny creature has striking black and orange wings, often with white spots, spanning up to 2 inches.
The Borbo havei is a fast flyer and can often be seen flitting around the Madagascan countryside. The small Malagasy swift is a great example of Madagascar’s diverse range of butterflies.
Madagascar is one of the most biodiverse countries for butterfly life. This beautiful creature is one of many reasons to explore this great nation.
18. Swifts
Madagascar is home to a wide variety of butterflies, and the swifts of the genus Borbo are no exception. These swift, brightly-colored types of butterflies in Madagascar can often be seen fluttering around in Madagascar’s warm, humid forests.
Their wings feature a variety of patterns, ranging from stripes to chevrons and spots. Borbo swifts are generally small, reaching an average of only 5-6 cm long.
They have large eyespots on their hindwings, which help them blend in with their surroundings. They also have unique antennae that are clubbed at the end and resemble tiny hooks.
Swifts can often be seen flying rapidly through the air in search of food. They feed primarily on nectar from flowering plants, but they will also feed on the sap of trees and the juice from decaying fruit. They play an important role in pollinating plants throughout Madagascar’s forests.
The swifts of Madagascar are important pollinators, and their brightly colored wings add a splash of color to the forests of this unique island nation.
Whether you’re looking for a fun way to explore Madagascar or admire its amazing wildlife, these beautiful butterflies will surely make your visit unforgettable.
19. Mocker Swallowtail
The Mocker Swallowtail (Papilio Dardanus) is Madagascar’s beautiful and vibrant butterfly. Its dazzling black, yellow, and blue wings stand out among the many other species of butterflies that inhabit the island nation.
It has a wingspan of up to seven inches and is considered one of Madagascar’s most eye-catching butterflies. The Mocker Swallowtail can be spotted in Madagascar’s forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
20. Acraea dammii
Acraea dammii is a butterfly found on Madagascar’s diverse and vibrant island. It is a small butterfly, usually featuring brown upper wings with white and yellow spots.
The underside is mostly pale brown with creamy white edges and yellow spots. These types of Butterflies in Madagascar can often be seen fluttering amongst the lush vegetation and flowers of Madagascar’s forests and woodlands.
21. Acraea zitja
Madagascar is home to many beautiful butterflies, including the Acraea zitja species.
This medium-sized butterfly can be easily recognized by its orange and yellow wings, which are decorated with intricate black markings.
The underside of the wings is greyish-brown with white and yellow spots. The Acraea zitja species is mainly found in the lowlands of Madagascar.
They inhabit areas with grasslands, open meadows, and forest edges and clearings. These butterflies are also known to migrate to other regions of Madagascar seasonally.
Like most butterfly species, the Acraea zitja has a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay eggs on the leaves of their preferred food plants, such as the Vitex, Erythrina, and Passiflora species.
After hatching, the larvae feed on the leaves before entering the pupal stage. Finally, adult butterflies emerge after two to three weeks.
The Acraea zitja species is an important pollinator of many flowering plants in Madagascar, helping to ensure the growth and reproduction of these plants.
Additionally, they play an important role in the food web by providing sustenance for other animals, such as birds, frogs, and lizards.
As one of Madagascar’s many species of butterflies, the Acraea zitja adds vibrant color and life to the country’s diverse ecosystems.
With its stunning orange and yellow wings, this butterfly stands out from the crowd and adds to the beauty of Madagascar’s natural landscapes.
22. Mothers-of-Pearl
Mothers-of-Pearl (Protogoniomorpha) is one of the most beautiful types of butterflies in Madagascar. These butterflies feature bold, iridescent blues and greens on their wings that shimmer in the sunlight, making them stand out.
They are also known for their slow, steady flight, gliding through the air gracefully. Mothers-of-Pearl can be found in open areas such as gardens and fields and provides a beautiful addition to the natural beauty of Madagascar.
23. Painted Lady
The Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) is a stunningly beautiful butterfly found in Madagascar.
It has striking orange and black wings, white spots, and a yellow border. Its long antennae and long proboscis enable it to feed on various flowers.
The Painted Lady has a wide range of habitats across the island, including savanna, forest, and grassland areas. It is one of the most common types of butterflies in Madagascar’s different ecosystems.
24. Royal Blue Pansy
Royal Blue Pansies are next on Madagascar’s list of types of Butterflies. The Royal Blue Pansy is a stunningly beautiful butterfly found in Madagascar.
Its wings feature dark and light blue shades with yellow, black, and white accents, creating an eye-catching pattern. Its slow and leisurely flight makes it easy to spot among other butterflies.
25. Buckeyes & Pansies
Buckeyes and Pansies, the genus Junonia, are also types of butterflies in Madagascar. These bright and colorful creatures can be seen flitting around in gardens and grasslands throughout the island.
They have large wings with distinctive eyespots, making them easy to spot from a distance. Their vibrant orange, yellow, and brown hues make them a stunning sight to behold!
26. Brush-footed Butterflies
Madagascar is home to many beautiful butterflies, including brush-footed butterflies (Family Nymphalidae). These graceful insects have four large brush legs and come in various vivid colors.
They can often be found in wetland habitats or near flowers where they feed on nectar. They are important pollinators of native plants and play an essential role in Madagascar’s vibrant ecosystems.
27. Dark Blue Pansy
Lastly, The Dark Blue Pansy (Junonia oenone) is a stunning species of butterfly found in Madagascar. With its vibrant blue wings and small black spots, this butterfly is a beautiful sight to behold.
The Dark Blue Pansy is the most widespread butterfly species in Madagascar and can be seen in various habitats ranging from humid forests to grasslands.
It is most commonly found in the northern and western parts of the island. This species usually flies during the day and can be seen fluttering amongst the vegetation.
The Dark Blue Pansy is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 2.5 to 4 inches (6.3 to 10 cm). The upper side of the wings is deep blue, while the underside is pale gray with several black spots scattered along the edges.
The color pattern helps the butterfly blend in with its surroundings and avoid being spotted by predators.
The Dark Blue Pansy feeds primarily on nectar from flowering plants but has also been known to feed on sap and fruits.
These butterflies can be seen in large numbers during the rainy season, as they are attracted to the abundance of flowers available at that time.
The Dark Blue Pansy is an important species for maintaining Madagascar’s biodiversity. As they feed on nectar and pollinate flowers, they play a vital role in the island’s ecosystem. They are also an important food source for other animals, such as birds, frogs, and lizards.
For those visiting Madagascar, the Dark Blue Pansy is one of the most captivating butterflies. Be sure to keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures on your next trip!
