“The Lesser Harlequin butterfly (Laxita thuisto thuisto) is a small but striking butterfly, a rare species from the family Riodinidae. Riodinid butterflies are also called Metalmarks, from the metallic-looking spots commonly found on their wings.
“Rioninids are usually found in shady areas in the forest. Here’s a female Lesser Harlequin, performing a sexy little dance with half-open wings, twisting and turning for minutes, from leaf to leaf :
“Not sure if the males perform this dance too, and if there’s a purpose behind the performance.”
Lena Chow
Singapore
20th November 2013
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