The Idea idea, commonly known as the **Paper Kite Butterfly** or **Rice Paper Butterfly**, is a large and graceful species belonging to the Danainae subfamily of the Nymphalidaefamily. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Taiwan, this butterfly is known for its striking black-and-white patterned wings that resemble delicate rice paper. With a wingspan of about **12–14 cm (4.7–5.5 inches)**, its slow, floating flight style makes it a mesmerizing sight in tropical rainforests and butterfly gardens. The Paper Kite Butterfly thrives in warm, humid environments and is often found fluttering around coastal mangroves and lowland forests where its host plants, primarily Milkweed (Apocynaceae family, grow.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Paper Kite Butterfly is its unpalatability to predators, which it acquires from consuming toxic milkweed as a caterpillar. This characteristic, similar to the Monarch butterfly, acts as a natural defense mechanism against birds and other predators. The butterfly’s gentle, gliding flight pattern and large wings make it a popular attraction in butterfly conservatories worldwide. Additionally, its life cycle follows the typical **complete metamorphosis** of butterflies—egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult—displaying a captivating transformation. Often associated with peace and beauty, the Paper Kite Butterfly is not just an ecological marvel but also a symbol of delicate elegance in the natural world.
We firmly support the sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they take care of the conservation of the rainforest where they fly and the development of responsible conscious trading.
This allows us to support local ranching farms with ethically sourced material and help at the same time collectors and enthusiasts to contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.
Please take into consideration that the specimen that you will receive may slightly differ in size, shape or colour from the picture shown as you are purchasing a natural product.
All our items are carefully delivered to prevent damages on transport, papered items are packaged in glassine envelopes specifying capture/breeding data and location available. CITES certificate will be provided in the specimens required.
HOW WE GRADE OUR LISTINGS (SPECIMENS)
As Insect specimens are natural products, some are bred and some others caught in wild, the quality can vary greatly.
The guide below explains the grading used for specimens in our listings.
A1 No visible imperfections, both antennas, no tearing, scratches or missing part of the wings (or as perfect as you could expect from wild caught specimens), with exception of some leg damage.
A1- Very minor damage, normally restricted to antenna damage or antennae attached separately in the envelope.
A- These specimens have minor damage, such as antenna damage, or minor flight wear such as small scratches, minor sale damage, some minor fraying/chipping around the edges of the wings.
A2 More significant damage, such as major flight wear, small rips, small pieces missing from the wings, damage to the thorax or abdomen.
B or Second Grade These specimens have similar damage to A2 specimens, but to a more significant degree. Usually used as parts replacement or art work material
| SPECIMEN | |
|---|---|
| Country | indonesia |
| Locality | Seram Island |
| Collection type | Ranched - Ex-pupae |
| Bio-zone | Indomalayan |
We supply both rare and common species from all parts of the world.
• Entomology • Photography • Research • Trade • Home decor •
United States, United Kingdom and Mexico
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