Southern White Admiral Limenitis reducta, Velebit mountains, Croatia – Peter Bruce-Jones
Introduction
There are about 25-30 species in the genus Limenitis. Some such as populi and camilla are widely distributed across Europe and temperate Asia. The majority however are largely restricted to China and the countries of the former Soviet Union.Limenitis reducta is found in southern and central Europe.
Southern White Admiral Limenitis reducta, Velebit mountains, Croatia � Peter Bruce-Jones
Habitats
This species breeds in woodland glades and forest-edge habitats.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are noted for their nimble and graceful flight, alternately flitting and gliding, as they weave their way with great precision in and out of the foliage of trees. Males imbibe mineralised moisture from damp ground, and occasionally visit dung, fallen fruit or sap runs. Both sexes imbibe aphid secretions ‘honey-dew’ which coat the upper surface of leaves. They also visit a wide range of herbaceous and arboreal flowers for nectar.