Home / Brush-Footed (Nymphalidae) / Common Map (Cyrestis thyodamas)

Common Map (Cyrestis thyodamas)

Common Mapwing source: i.pinimg.com

The Common Map is a species of butterflies belonging to the nymphalid group and spread across several regions across the Indian subcontinent, and a few other countries. They also have a subspecies in Taiwan.

Scientific Classification


  • Family: Nymphalidae
  • Genus: Cyrestis
  • Scientific Name: Cyrestis thyodamas

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

Common Mapwing Caterpillar source: en.wikipedia.org

The mature larva is bright green in color with a brown vertical line running across its body. There are four typical horn-like protrusions on the body, with two being on the forehead, one above the thorax region, while another one near the anus. The caterpillar feeds on its shell as it hatches out of its egg.

Pupa

Common Mapwing Pupa source: i.ytimg.com

The chrysalis is light brown to orange with light gray or black spots on the back – a shape and pattern that make them look like a dry leaf hanging from their host plant. This is primarily for camouflage purpose.

Adult Butterfly

Sexual Dimorphism: Not present

Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, they display chocolate brown lines running randomly on a white base, with the inner corners of both the primary and secondary wings showing an orange patch. When the wings are closed, they display a similar pattern and color scheme, but in a much fainter variation.

Common Map Butterfly source: c1.staticflickr.com

Cyrestis thyodamas source: upload.wikimedia.org

Average wingspan: 58–70 mm

Flight pattern: Slow and erratic

Eggs

Light greenish yellow in color; either domed-shaped or conical

Quick Facts

Distribution In India’s Himalayan region to Travancore, parts of eastern India, China, Japan, and Taiwan (subspecies)
Habitat Forest edges, sunny fields and meadows, muddy swamps with tall vegetation
Host plants Several species belonging to the genus Ficus
Adult diet Flower nectar

Did You Know?

  • They migrate to southern India, where they have been noticed puddling in the mud in large flocks.

Common Map Butterfly Pictures source: photos.smugmug.com

Common Map Butterfly Images source: bengalbutterflies.com

Common Mapwing Butterfly source: lh3.googleusercontent.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scientific Classification

  • Family: Nymphalidae
  • Genus: Cyrestis
  • Scientific Name: Cyrestis thyodamas
Published by Poppy Glendening on December 13, 2018.
Last Updated: October 15, 2023. ✅ Verified by: Butterfly Team