Rhodesia Philately: Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia oenone)

The Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia oenone) is a Nymphalid butterfly native to Africa. The butterfly inhabits woodland and savanna, as well as suburban parks and gardens, and occurs over the moister eastern half of South Africa. Adults may be seen throughout the year though they’re much more numerous in spring and autumn. They’re very active during the warmest hours of the day and males, which are territorial, can often be seen chasing each other and other kinds of butterflies around on hilltops.

The wingspan is 40–52 mm. The upper surface of the forewings is black with white markings towards the apex. The upper surface of the hindwings is black with white markings on the outer edge, and a characteristic large metallic-blue spot. This blue spot is smaller and more a dull purple in females. The underside of the forewings is brown with white markings corresponding to those on the upper surface. The under surface of the hindwings is almost uniform brown.

Postcards

1976 – T R Blackmore & Co (Pvt.) Ltd (Type I)

References