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Dira clytus

Papilio clytus

A species of Swallowtails

Dira clytus, the Cape autumn widow, is a butterfly of the family Nymphalidae. It is found in South Africa. The wingspan is 45–55 mm. Adults of ssp. clytus are on wing from late February to April and of ssp. eurina from late February to late March. There is one generation per year The larvae feed on various Poaceae species, including Ehrharta erecta, Pennisetum clandestinum, Stipa dregeana, Panicum deustrum, Stenotaphrum glabrum and Stenotaphrum secundatum.

General Info About Dira clytus
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Attributes of Dira clytus
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Blue
Orange
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Dira clytus
South Africa
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Predators of Adult Dira clytus
Birds, spiders, mammals (such as bats), reptiles (such as lizards)
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Interesting Facts About Dira clytus
Dira clytus can taste with their feet, which helps them find food and suitable places to lay eggs.
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Scientific Classification of Dira clytus
Tips for Finding Dira clytus
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Youth Habitat of Dira clytus
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Dira clytus Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of dira clytus are laid on host plant leaves primarily citrus trees situated in gardens and orchards. The caterpillars are commonly found munching on the foliage of these trees, camouflaged among the greenery. Pupae often attach themselves to the stems or leaves, sometimes blending on the bark, in those same citrus groves, undergoing transformation hidden in plain sight. Adults favor gardens and meadows with an abundance of flowering plants for nectar feeding. To find the varying stages of dira clytus, one would search citrus groves for eggs and caterpillars, inspect the trees and surrounding vegetation for cryptic pupae, and explore flowery areas for the fluttering adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Dira clytus
The best time to find adult dira clytus is on sunny days when butterflies are most active, usually in the late morning and early afternoon. For caterpillars, they can be observed during the day on their host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Dira clytus
Mild to warm temperatures, low winds, and dry conditions are the most suitable weather conditions to find adult dira clytus. Caterpillars may be found in similar conditions, ideally when it is not too hot to avoid desiccation.
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How and Where Can You Find Dira clytus at Different Life Stages
Egg Dira clytus eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, closely examine the leaves of potential host plants, particularly looking for small spherical or ovate objects.
Larva Dira clytus caterpillars can be spotted by searching the host plants they consume. Look for chewed leaves, frass (caterpillar droppings), and the caterpillars themselves resting on stems or leaves.
Pupal Dira clytus chrysalises can be more challenging to find due to their camouflaged appearance. They often attach to the stems or leaves of plants or even structural surfaces in a cryptic manner. Inspect these areas carefully.
Adult Dira clytus butterflies are most visible when they are feeding on nectar plants or basking in the sun. Search for them in gardens, meadows, and other areas rich in flowering plants.
Are Dira clytus harmful?
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Are Dira clytus harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Dira clytus
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Dira clytus flutters from bloom to bloom, its colorful wings a blur of motion. At each stop, it uncurls its long proboscis to sip nectar, inadvertently transferring pollen. This exchange is the essence of pollination, enabling plants to reproduce. While dira clytus primarily seeks nectar, pollen grains stick to its body, facilitating the fertility of the flowers it visits.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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