Description
The males are orange red above, with black bordering on the forewings, whilst the female is dark brown and unmarked. The underside is greyish brown with the dark brown striations edged with narrow white stripes. There is an orange-crowned black spot at the tornal area of the hindwing with a fine threadlike white tipped tail.

Habitat & Habits
The Cornelian frequents similar locations in the nature reserves like its close cousins, the Rapalas. Indeed, it flies with the strong rapid flight like the Rapala species.

This butterfly occurs mainly in woodlands areas. Often seen taking sunbath on trees, it is swift flyer that frequently visits flowers.

Other Observations
To be detailed.

Early Stages
The caterpillar of this species feeds on the fruit of the pomegranate and the seed capsules of Aesculus indicus.

Further Reading
Butterfly of the Month - January 2009