Description : The Red Base Jezebel bears a resemblance to the Malayan Jezebel (Delias ninus ninus) and can be separated from the latter only by examining the uppersides. The wings are broadly dusted with black and the hindwing is yellow with a red basal patch. Habitat & habits : This species was observed in an area within the northern limit of the central catchment nature reserves in the early 90's. It was believed that the individual was a stray migratory specimen, having come from up north in Malaysia during a period when the species was common. This species, like several of the Delias genus, are known to participate in migratory behaviour at times. Though described as confined to the forested hills in Malaysia, the Red Base Jezebel occurs commonly in the plains at irregular intervals, and is a well-known migrant. Biggs (1881) spoke of the species as "a common coastal butterfly, and described it as being found sometimes in an apparently endless stream". Other Observations : The species has not been seen in the past decade or more and should be looked for in the northern parts of the island where migratory specimens are believed to be able to reach on their journey from Malaysia. Early
Stages : The caterpillar is brown with
yellow hairs and each segment has a yellow transverse band. The
caterpillars are gregarious and have been found feeding on a species of
Nauclea. It is possible that the parasitic Loranthus is also a
host plant. |
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