Saturday, 13 February 2021

Zemeros emesoides emesoides (The Malayan Punchinello)

The Malayan Punchinello (Zemeros emesoides emesoides) is a rather uncommon butterfly in this region. It is one of the only two species of the "Zemeros" genus found here. The other one is the slightly more "common" Punchinello (Zemeros flegyas albipunctatus).

Like its close relative i.e the "Punchinello", this "Malayan Punchinello" strives better in a hilly terrain.


I was quite lucky to see it recently.


A side profile of the 'Malayan Punchinello'


This one here is quite friendly as it allows me for a close view. In fact I could even touch it if I want to!


This butterfly hardly open its wings widely like other butterflies.




Here are some photos of another Malayan Punchinello taken at the same location a few weeks after the above.

The above new one is slightly smaller and its forewing is also shorter.


I am assuming that it might just came out of pupation (an immature).


A few minutes later, a Pin-stripped Tit Babbler was seen taking a 'bite' at one of its hind wings.


Such a wonderful butterfly !

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