Description:

Polyura athamas, commonly known as the Indian Nawab, is a species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is a large-sized butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 100-120 mm. The upper-side of the wings are dark brown with white markings, while the underside is pale brown with darker brown markings. The species is found in forests and grasslands in South Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Adults feed on nectar from flowers, while larvae feed on various plants, including leaves and stems. Polyura athamas is a striking species, known for its distinctive white markings and long tail extensions on its hindwings. The species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but its habitats are threatened by deforestation, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this and other butterfly species. The species is also known for its unique behavior of flying in a slow, gliding motion.Top of Form