Introduction
The genus Oboronia comprises of 7 delicate small white butterflies known as Ginger Whites. The butterflies are entirely Afrotropical in distribution, with 5 species confined to west Africa, and a single species in the coastal forests of Kenya.
Oboronia ornata is a west African species found from Sierra Leone to Cameroon. It is the only untailed member of the genus.
Habitats
This species is found in disturbed forest, and in riparian forest in savannah-dominated areas.
Lifecycle
The larvae feed on the flowers of Costus ( Costaceae ).
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are most active early in the morning and are rarely seen after midday unless the weather is cool. They fly slowly along paths, streams, roadsides and forest edges; and spend long periods nectaring at marigolds and other wild flowers. When nectaring they normally hold the wings erect or very slightly apart. They form small colonies and are usually seen in two’s and three’s.
