Orange Forester

Euphaedra rattrayi (?)

an orange forester, possibly Euphaedra rattrayi, from Kakamega, Kenya, Oct. 2016. Photo © by Michael Plagens

Observed along a path through Kakamega Forest, Kenya, October 2016.

As implied by the common name these butterflies appear in forested areas generally at lower elevations. The caterpillars feed on leaves of several small trees in the soapberry family. The adults tend to alight on forest paths where dappled sunlight illuminates their brilliant colors. There are many species and there is significant variation such that separating them is a difficult endeavor.

Nymphaliidae -- Brush-footed Butterfly Family

More Information:


Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 9 May 2017.