Cunizza hirlanda ninguida, Satipo, Peru – Adrian Hoskins
Introduction
In the neotropical region there are a total of 192 representatives of the subfamily Pierinae.There are 5 genera within the tribe Anthocharidini which occur in the neotropics – Mathania and Eroessa being found only in the Andes, while Euchloe and Anthocharis also have many members in the Holarctic region, including the Dappled Whites and Orange tips of Europe.
The remaining genus, Cunizza, comprises of a single species – hirlanda, which has 9 recognised subspecies, found variously in Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil and Bolivia. Subspecies ninguida is confined to Peru.
Habitats
This species is found in the forested foothills of the eastern Andes, and the lowlands of the upper Amazon basin, at altitudes between about 400-1000m.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The male is usually encountered singly in the vicinity of streams and waterfalls. In common with the males of many other butterflies of all families, they obtain their sustenance by imbibing mineralised moisture, rather than from nectar. The female is seen less often, usually when visiting flowers, or flying in search of egg-laying sites.