New locality record of Euthalia lusiada in Catanduanes
On October 9, 2016, while on a trip in Catanduanes Island for a family gathering, a female Baron butterfly was photographed by Agnes Adique Talavera in Paday Falls, Bagamanoc. The spotting was reported and posted at the Philippine Lepidoptera’s discussion page, and subsequently, on its official website. The ID was given by Ja-a T. Badon and confirmed as Euthalia lusiada, most probably ssp. lusiada C. & R. Felder 1863, Nymphalidae; Nymphalinae; Limenitidini (others place this under Limenitidinae; Adoliadini).
This is an endemic species of the Philippines. Further, as of 2012, this subspecies with uncommon occurrence has been recorded only in Babuyan, main Luzon, and Marinduque islands. This sighting would place it as a new locality record for Catanduanes Island. This photo is also the first live shot of the species that can be found in the net.
Euthalia lusiada is a medium-sized nymphalid butterfly endemic to the Philippines. Like many of the butterflies in its tribe, E. lusiada flies with stiff wing beats, showing alternately the bright upperside and the cryptic underside, then glides with the motionless wings held outstretched. Not much literature can be found for this species.
Agnes Adique Talavera is a mother of three. She is a semi-retired Information Technology professional with a passion for documenting lepidopterans. Born and lived in Catanduanes until she was four when her family transferred to Metro Manila, she currently resides in Laguna.
