Neptis Philyra

• 24 Apr 2024

Source: TOI

A rare butterfly species named Neptis philyra (Nymphalidae family), also known as the long-streak sailor, has been discovered for the first time in India at the Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (TWS), Arunachal Pradesh by a team of butterfly enthusiasts.

• Previously known to be found across various regions of East Asia, including eastern Siberia, Korea, Japan, and central and southwest China.
  • It has serrated wings with rich brownish-black on the upper side and yellow-brown on the underside.
  • It has a white cell streak on the forewing that forms a “hockey stick” pattern.
• The TWS is named after the Tale Valley, where the wild onion "Tale" is abundant. located in the Lower Subansiri District. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including the elusive clouded leopard, Indian elephant, and rare orchid species.
• The area is popular for bird and butterfly watching, and there is potential for ecotourism, especially focusing on cultural and scientific planning.

Read more: White Tufted Royal Butterfly, Clouded Leopards and Their Habitats