African Monarch
Danaus chrysippus
Points
10
per confirmed sighting
African Monarch.
Danaus chrysippus
A widespread orange butterfly whose toxicity is mimicked by several other species.
Category
butterflies moths
Family
Nymphalidae
Size
Wingspan 7–8 cm
Points
10 pts
A closer look
Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding african monarch in its natural range.
Overview
A widespread orange butterfly whose toxicity is mimicked by several other species.
How to identify it
Orange wings with black borders and white apical spots.
Habitat
LepTraits 1.0 habitat-affinity coding: Canopy generalist; Edge-associated (weak); Both; Disturbance-associated (strong).
Diet
Nectar; larvae feed on milkweeds
Behaviour
—
When to look
LepTraits 1.0 adult-flight months recorded: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.
Where to see it
South Africa- Kruger National ParkZA
- Liwonde National ParkMW
Safety and etiquette
Observe from a vehicle or a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Verification and sources
1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.