Principal Secretary to the Government Dheeraj Gupta accorded the sanction to the declaration of Blue Pansy (Junonia Orithya) as the 'State Butterfly' of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
Scientific Name: The Blue Pansy butterfly belongs to the species Junonia orithya and is part of the Nymphalidae family.
Geographic Distribution: This butterfly species is native to South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Coloration: The Blue Pansy butterfly displays vibrant and striking colors. The upper side of its wings is primarily black with metallic blue markings, while the underside features intricate patterns of brown, orange, and black, helping it blend with its surroundings.
Seasonal Variation: One fascinating aspect of the Blue Pansy butterfly is its seasonal variation in appearance. During the dry season, the males develop a brighter blue coloration, while the females tend to have a more subdued color palette.
Mimicry: Blue Pansy butterflies employ a unique survival strategy called mimicry. Their wing patterns resemble those of toxic butterfly species, such as the Common Tiger (Danaus genutia), providing protection against predators.
Habitat Preference: These butterflies are commonly found in open areas, including gardens, fields, grasslands, and forest edges. They prefer areas with abundant flowering plants as a source of nectar.
Host Plants: Blue Pansy butterflies lay their eggs on various plant species, including members of the Acanthaceae family, such as the Ruellia and Justicia plants. The caterpillars feed on these host plants as they grow and develop.
Flight Behavior: When in flight, the Blue Pansy butterfly displays an erratic and fluttering pattern, making it difficult for predators to catch them. They are known for their quick and agile movements.
Mating Behavior: During the mating season, male Blue Pansy butterflies engage in territorial displays and aerial pursuits to attract females. The males establish territories and defend them against other males.
Life Cycle: The life cycle of a Blue Pansy butterfly involves four stages: egg, caterpillar (larva), pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly. The entire process takes around four weeks, but it can vary depending on environmental conditions.
These are just a few interesting points about the Blue Pansy butterfly. Observing their behavior and studying their natural history can provide even more fascinating insights into these beautiful creatures.
As the ‘State Butterfly’, the Blue Pansy will become an ambassador for environmental education, encouraging citizens and visitors alike to appreciate the importance of conserving Jammu and Kashmir's ecological heritage. The Union Territory administration plans to collaborate with educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to organize awareness programs, workshops, and conservation initiatives focused on the butterfly and its habitat.