Brown Butterfly Surge in Kolkata: Common Evening Brown
Why in the news
Residents of Kolkata noticed swarms of brown butterflies in homes and open spaces, and experts called it a seasonal, climate-driven natural event.
Key facts
- Species: Common Evening Brown (Melanitis leda), a small leaf-like butterfly with a wingspan of about 2.5-3 inches.
- Weight is only a few milligrams.
- Brown wings resemble dry or dead leaves, giving camouflage on forest floors and grassy patches.
- Behaviour: active at dusk and night, attracted to artificial lighting.
The surge
- Cause cited: prolonged monsoon rains and suitable ecological conditions.
- Seen in balconies, homes, gardens, pavements and other urban open spaces.
Exam angle
- Scientific name: Melanitis leda.
- Camouflage: wings mimic dead leaves.