This
swift-flying butterfly is common in the nature reserves. In flight, one
normally catches a glimpse of its blue wings. There is some red spotting
on the underside of the hindwing. In Singapore, the Common Bluebottle
is frequently found in the company of the Blue Jay (Graphium evemon
eventus) and the Five Bar Swordtail (Pathysa antiphates itamputi),
flying erratically up and down open jungle paths.
The males of this species can
often be found feeding on roadside seepages or urine-tainted sand as is
shown in the two photos here. Occasionally, up to eight butterflies can
be found congregated on one spot. The caterpillar feeds on a species
of wild Cinnamon. |