Home / Brush-Footed (Nymphalidae) / Blue Nawab (Polyura schreiber)

Blue Nawab (Polyura schreiber)

The Blue Nawab is a species of majestic and magnificent-looking butterfly found in several countries of tropical Asia, including India in several subspecies, or even races. Because of their restless nature, photographing these brush-footed butterflies is often a challenge.

Scientific Classification

Family: Nymphalidae
Genus: Polyura
Scientific Name: Polyura schreiber

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

They are usually green. The mature larvae of the various species of these butterflies vary in patterns and markings, but all the specimens feature a large head bearing a crown of 4 long horn-like protrusions. A yellow band on the seventh segment can also be seen.

Pupa

The chrysalis is usually green with darker segment marks and venation with a longitudinal row of red dots on each side. It remains hung with the tip attached to a branch of the host plant.

Adult Butterfly

Sexual Dimorphism: Not vividly present (females are larger)

Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, the dorsal side displays a white median band ornamented with blue. When the wings are closed, it shows a silvery underside decorated with light brown and violet to purple patterns. Two pairs of tails can also be seen on the hindwings

Average wingspan: 60 to 80 mm

Flight pattern: Strong and fast flaps

Eggs

Spherical and smooth with pale yellow and purple marks, laid one at a time

Quick Facts
Distribution	From the southern parts of India and Assam through Myanmar, Tenasserim, and Southeast Asia to southern China and to Java, Indonesia
Habitat	Urban parks and gardens, forested areas and also within mangrove areas
Lifespan of adults	Unknown
Host plants	Varies between subspecies
Adult diet	Flower nectar; males have been observed seen feasting on decomposing animal matter, as well as overripe fruits