Spotlight on Species
Ceylon Tiger (E)
The Ceylon Tiger is a large butterfly of the high tree canopy. The species is endemic to Sri Lanka and occurs only at high elevations - its habitat is restricted to the central mountain forests, above 3000 feet. It occasionally ventures into gardens of bungalows in tea plantations.
It has a wingspan of 80-90mm. The wings exhibit contrasting colours in flight - dark chocolate coloured upper wings with greenish white markings. Its fore wings feature two distinct streaks starting at the base of the wings; the hind wing has similar markings. Both upper wing surfaces have a number of rounded spots towards the outer margins. The markings on the underside correspond to those on the upper surface but are lighter in color.
The species is faster on the wing compared to other Danaids. It generally takes flight on sunny days in the high tree canopy, descending only to feed on the nectar of wayside flowers. While feeding, it hangs onto the flowers with its wings partly open.
The species is not uncommon in Sri Lanka. However, the fact that it is found only in Sri Lanka and its relatively restricted distribution is a threat to its existence. It has been declared a protected species under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance (FFPO).
Photo: George van der Poorten
Bibliography
D'Abrera B., 1998, The Butterflies of Ceylon. WHT Publications (Private) Limited, Colombo. p. 108.
Ekaratne K., Fernando R.H.S.S., de Silva S., Bambaradeniya C.N.B. and de Silva D., 2003, A Comparison of the Conservation and Legal Status of the Fauna and Flora of Sri Lanka. IUCN, Sri Lanka.
