The Orchard Butterfly is found in Eastern Australia most commonly in Qld and NSW, but also in Vic and SA, usually between October and May. They are large black and white butterflies with wingspans of up to 14cm. Host plants include orange, lemon, lime and other citrus trees, Long-leaf wax flower, Leopardwood, Dogwood, Phebalium and Sandfly Zieria.
During the early developmental stage, the caterpillars look like fresh bird droppings and as they grow they develop spines and red tentacles that emit a foul smell.
Males can be quite territorial and will chase anything black and white, including magpies.
This photo is from a garden in Inglewood and this species has not been seen in almost 20 years. Interestingly, another resident in Inglewood has an Orchard Butterfly frequenting her garden also this year.
Article – Wendy Murphy, Photograph – Laurie May
I live in Victoria and I have been frequented by these beautiful butterfies every day for the past 2 weeks, both male and female. I have lived in this area (Warburton) for the past 20 years and this is only the second year I have seen them.
ReplyDeletei had one of these in my garden for one afternoon about 5 years ago. i thought it was a swollow at first. i have a large pond that has a shadecloth frame over it, it came out of there maybe after a drink as it was a really hot afternoon. i live in Neilborough, vic.
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