MANO'S PASSIONS

Butterfly - Germany

2011-04-23T10:42:00.000+05:30

23-4-2011

After a long break due to official commitments, I am returning to the blogging.

Here under I post a used registered envelope containing 4v of BUTTERFLY

stamps issued on 25.05.1962 by Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany)

in denomination of Pfg. 7+3, 10+5, 20+10, and 40+20, which was used

on 17.08.1962.

Thanks to my blogger friend.

Birds of prey - st. vincent & the grenedines -owls

2011-02-27T10:42:00.000+05:30

27-2-2011
Hereunder I post six owl stamps of St. Vin. & the grenedines with FV 10, 20, 50, 70. 90, 100 cents

Birds of prey - owl - Aruba

2011-02-27T10:32:00.000+05:30

27-2-2011
Today I show hereunder four stamps of Aruba Burrowing owls 5c, 10c, 35c, 40c

The Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) is a tiny, but long-legged owl found throughout open landscapes of North and South America. Burrowing Owls can be found in grasslands, rangelands, agricultural areas, deserts, or any other dry, open area with low vegetation^[1]. They nest and roost in burrows, such as those excavated by prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.). Unlike most owls, Burrowing Owls are often active during the day, although they tend to avoid the mid-day heat. Most hunting is still done from dusk until dawn, like many owls, when they can use their night vision and hearing to their advantage. Burrowing Owls have bright yellow eyes. The beak can be between yellowish or greenish depending on the subspecies. They lack ear tufts and have a flattened facial disc. The owls have prominent white eyebrows and a white "chin" patch which they expand and display during certain behaviors, such as bobbing of the head when agitated.

Adults have brown upper parts with white spotting. The chest and belly are white with variable brown spotting or barring, also depending on the subspecies. Juvenile owls are similar in appearance, but they lack most of the white spotting above and brown barring below. Also, the young owls have a buff bar across the upper wing and their breast may be buffy rather than white. Burrowing Owls of all ages have grayish legs longer than other owls. Males and females are similar in size and appearance. Females tend to be heavier, but males tend to have longer linear measurements (wing length, tail length, etc.). Adult males appear lighter in color than females because they spend more time outside the burrow during daylight, and their feathers become "sun-bleached". The average adult is slightly larger than an American Robin (Turdus migratorius), at 25 cm (10 inches) length, 53 cm (21 inches) wingspan, and 170g (6 oz). The Burrowing Owl is a buffy-colored, long-legged owl with large, yellow eyes. This diurnal species can be seen sitting in open areas in small family groups, apparently unphased by the burning afternoon sun. Burrowing Owls are much loved by the native islanders and appear on Aruba’s currency and postal stamps. Sadly, their populations seem to have declined greatly.

[[thanks to web authors]]

Indian Birds over view - special covers on 9th def. series of bird stamps

2011-02-13T08:07:00.001+05:30

13-2-11
Today I post hereunder three special covers showing stamps of 9th def. series bird
stamps of india. 100ps, 400 ps, 5000 ps. stamps were shown in part IV of overview.
Comments welcome.

Date :: 20-7-2000

Date :: 20-9-2001

Date :: 30-10-2000

Covers of VIII series were used. Thanks to my blogger friend for providing these covers.

Butterfly - WWF San Marino

2011-02-11T20:33:00.001+05:30

11-2-11
Today I am posting four WWF FDI covers and stamps on butterfly of San Marino.
Stamps are post marked 26-5-93 - comments wel come

Indian Birds over view - part IV

2011-01-30T11:28:00.000+05:30

Indian Bird over view part IV

I am posting the indian birds with FDCs in part IV hereunder.

13. 2-9-96 - World poultry congress - 500ps -
       Red jungle fowl cockerel

14. 12-11-95 - 1100ps + 800ps - Birth Centenary of
       Dr. Salim Moizuddin Abdul Ali
       800ps stamp having stork at next in Bharatpur
       Bird Sanctuary.

15. 24-5-2000 -Indepex Asiana 2000 - 14th International
       Stamp exhibition, Calcutta 300ps, 300ps,300ps,300ps
       Rosy pastor, Ganganey Teal, Forest wagtail
       white stork.

16. 5-10-2006 - Endangered birds of india
       500,500,500,500 ps
       Manipur quail    Lesser florican
       Greater adjutent stork, nilgiri laughing thrush

17.  9-7-2010 - Birds of india 500, 500 ps
       Sparrow and pigeon.

Defenitive series having birds

18. 30-4-2000 - 9th series 100, 400, 5000ps
       Saras crane, painted stork, paradise flycatcher

Defv. series - 9th - 30-4-2000

End of indian birds stamps over view. comments welcome.
thanks for visiting.

Indian Birds - over view - part III

2011-01-25T20:08:00.000+05:30

25-1-2011

Indian Birds - over view - Part III

Today I am posting part III of Indian Birds over view.

No. 9 - 20-12-89 - Likh Florican - 200ps

No. 10 - 30-12-92 - Birds of prey - 200 / 600 / 800 / 1100ps

Osprey

Preregrene Falcon

Lammergeier

Himalayan Golden Eagle

No. 11 - 23-11-94 - Endangered water birds of India [withdrawn issues]

100 / 600 / 800 / 1100 ps

Eastern White stork

Black necked crane

Andaman Teal

Pink necked duck

No. 12 - 10-5-96 - Himalayan Ecology - 500 ps - Meconopsis Horridula

No. 9 [][][][]

No. 10 [][][][]

No. 11 [][][][]

No. 12 [][][][]

India Bird stamps - over view - part II

2010-12-29T14:49:00.001+05:30

29-12-2010
Today I post hereunder two sets of stamps brought out by India Post in Part II

5--7-2-83 - International Crane Workshop Bharatpur
285ps - Grus leucogeranus

6-- 15-9-83 - Bombay Natural History Society - Great Indian Spoonbill
100ps - stamp not shown separately.

7-- 18-5-85 = Wild Life Conservation = White wing Duck
100ps

8--7-10-88 - Wild life week -1988
100ps - Curssorius Poitorquatus - Jerdon's courser
FDC not posted

THREE DEFENITIVE SERIES BIRD STAMPS WILL BE SHOWN AT THE END OF THIS
SERIES POSTING.

Part - II END

Birds - Indian birds over view - Part I

2010-12-28T13:52:00.000+05:30

28-12-2010

Hereunder I am posting the stamps on birds brought out by the Postal Department. This is part I of the Bird stamps of India.

28-12-2010 – Part I

31-12-68 – 20p, 50p, 100p, 200p
Blue Magpie//wood pecker//Scimiter Babler//Sun Bird

28-4-75 – 25p, 50p, 100p, 200p
Pitta Brachyura//Oriolus Xanthomus//Tragopan melanocephalus
Lophophorus impejamus

10-2-76 –Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary – Bharatpur – 25ps
Painted Stork

1-11-80 –230ps
International Symposium on Great Indian Bustards –Choriotis nigriceps
===============================================================
The FD covers also posted along side.
views welcome.

[[ to continue in part II ]]

Birds of prey - South Africa Raptors

2010-12-28T13:00:00.000+05:30

28-12-2010
Today I am posting a set of 10 stamps brought out by South Africa with supportive covers issued
on 16-8-1998 under the caption South African Raptors. The stamps contain pictures of kind of
birds of prey like Eagle, owls etc. Views welcome.

The post mark also shows the facade of a owl like.

Birds of prey - Owls - Belarus

2010-12-18T12:53:00.000+05:30

18-12-2010

Today I am showing hereunder two Souvenir Sheets issued by Belarus Post. The stamps
show different species within the owls. Comments may be posted. Thanks.

Belarus Owls

Butterfly- Monarch Butterfly

2010-12-17T21:33:00.000+05:30

17-12-2010

Mexico Butterflies

Today I am showing four WWF FDCs issued by Mexico on monarch butterflies

Butterflies of Gibraltar

2010-12-17T21:24:00.000+05:30

17-12-2010

Butterfly of Gibraltar

Today I am posting a beautiful set of butterflies of Gibraltar. The price of the stamps are
23, 26, 30 L 1-20 pounds.Butterflies in Gibraltar features the Anthocharis Belia Euphenoides, the Charaxes Jasius, the Vanessa Cardui and the Iphiclides Podalirius. This was issued in 1997.

Birds of prey - wings of prey

2010-12-12T19:44:00.000+05:30

12-12-2010
Gibraltar had issued stamps on birds of prey under title "" wings of prey"" along with stamps of

flying machines. This had been released in three parts. I already had posted two parts. Hereunder

showing the III series. Comments welcome. The SS shows the stamps on birds of prey only.

Birds of Prey - Barn Owls

2010-12-03T17:47:00.000+05:30

3-12-2010

Barn Owls

The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) is the most widely distributed species of owl, and one of the most widespread of all birds. It is also referred to as Common Barn Owl, to distinguish it from other species in the barn-owl family Tytonidae. These form one of two main lineages of living owls, the other being the typical owls (Strigidae). T. alba is found almost anywhere in the world except polar and desert regions, Asia north of the Alpide belt, most of Indonesia, and the Pacific islands. It is known by many other names, which may refer to the appearance, call, habitat or the eerie, silent flight: White Owl, Silver Owl, Demon Owl, Ghost Owl, Death Owl, Night Owl, Rat Owl, Church Owl, Cave Owl, Stone Owl, Monkey-faced Owl, Hissing Owl, Hobgoblin or Hobby Owl, Dobby Owl, Golden Owl, Scritch Owl, Screech Owl, Straw Owl, Barnyard Owl and Delicate Owl. "Golden Owl" might also refer to the related Golden Masked Owl (T. aurantia). "Hissing Owl" and, particularly in the USA, "screech owl" refer to the piercing calls of these birds, but it should be noted that this particular name is a misnomer and that the actual "screech owl" is a species unto itself. family "Strigidae" genus Megascops. The scientific name, established by G.A. Scopoli in 1769, literally means "white owl", from the onomatopoetic Ancient Greek tyto (τυτο) for an owl—compare English "hooter"—and Latin alba, "white".

The Barn Owl is a pale, long-winged, long-legged owl with a short squarish tail. Depending on subspecies, it measures about 25–45 cm (9.8–18 in) in overall length, with a wingspan of some 75–110 cm (30–43 in). Tail shape is a way of distinguishing the Barn Owl from true owls when seen in flight, as are the wavering motions and the open dangling feathered legs. The light face with its heart shape and the black eyes give the flying bird an odd and startling appearance, like a flat mask with oversized oblique black eyeslits, the ridge of feathers above the bill somewhat resembling a nose.

Its head and upperparts are a mixture of buff and grey feathers in most subspecies. The heart-shaped face is usually bright white, but in some subspecies it is browner. The under parts (including the tarsometatarsus feathers) vary from white to reddish buff among the subspecies, and are either mostly unpatterned or bear a varying amount of tiny blackish-brown speckles. The continental European populations, females with more spotting are healthier on average. The bill varies from pale horn to dark buff, corresponding to the general plumage hue. The iris is blackish brown. The toes, as the bill, vary in color; their color ranges from pinkish to dark pinkish-grey. The talons are black.

On average, within any one population males tend to be less spotted on the underside than females. The latter are also larger, as is common for owls. A strong female T. alba of a large subspecies may weigh over 550 g (19.4 oz), while males are typically about 10% lighter. Nestlings are covered in white down all over, but the heart-shaped facial disk is visible soon after hatching. Contrary to popular belief, it does not hoot (such calls are made by typical owls, like the Tawny Owl or other Strix). It instead produces the characteristic shree scream, ear-shattering at close range. Males in courtship give a shrill twitter. It can hiss like a snake to scare away intruders, and when captured or cornered, it throws itself on its back and flails with sharp-taloned feet, making for an effective defense. Also given in such situations is a rasp and a clicking snap, produced by the bill or possibly the tongue. It is most recognizable by its "mask-like" face.

Thanks to Wikipidia. Here under I am showing a beautiful SS on barn owl brought out by Jersey Post of 1.50 pound value.

Birds of prey - eagles - Gibraltar

2010-11-23T20:56:00.000+05:30

23-11-2010

WWF-Gibraltar

Official WWF stamps featuring the Red Kite. The Red Kite (Milvus milvus) is a medium-large bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as eagles, buzzards, and harriers. The species is currently endemic to the Western Palearctic region in Europe and northwest Africa, though formerly also occurred just outside in northern Iran.[2] It is a rare species which is resident in the milder parts of its range in western Europe and northwest Africa, but birds from northeastern and central Europe winter further south and west, reaching south to Turkey. Vagrants have reached north to Finland and south to Israel and Libya. The stamps are multi coloured and issued on 30-9-96 in the denomination 34p each.

Hereunder I am showing a set of 4 stamps on eagles under title Red Kite.

Birds of prey- Israel falcon and eagles

2010-11-23T20:50:00.000+05:30

23-11-2010
After a long time, I am now at blogging. Here under I am showing a picture of two covers issued by
Israel Post during Israphil 1985. The stamps on the cover are Bonelli Eagle, Lappet faced vulture
griffon vulture and sooty falcon.

Birds of prey - owl - Belgibum - Part II

2010-10-15T10:26:00.000+05:30

15-10-2010 - Belgium maxi

In continuation of my posting on maxi card of Belgium on owls, I am posting two more cards. Previously due to some problem in the blogging, I could post it in full. Comments welcome.

Birds of prey - owls - maxi - Belgium

2010-10-13T17:47:00.000+05:30

13-10-2010

Owls

There are some 220 to 225 extant species of owls, in two families: typical owls (Strigidae) and barn-owls (Tytonidae). Some entirely extinct families have also been erected based on fossil remains; these differ much from modern owls in being less specialized or specialized in a very different way Berruornis and Ogygoptynx show that owls were already present as a distinct lineage some 60 - 57 mya (million years ago), and, hence, possibly also some 5 million years earlier, at the extinction of the non-avian dinosaurs. This makes them one of the oldest known groups of non-Galloanserae landbirds. The supposed "Cretaceous owls" Bradycneme and Heptasteornis are apparently non-avialan maniraptors.

Owls have large forward-facing eyes and ear-holes, a hawk-like beak, a flat face, and usually a conspicuous circle of feathers, a facial disc, around each eye. Most birds of prey sport eyes on the sides of their heads, but the stereoscopic nature of the owl's forward-facing eyes permits a greater sense of depth perception necessary for low-light hunting. Although owls have binocular vision, their large eyes are fixed in their sockets, as with other birds, and they must turn their entire head to change views. Owls can rotate their heads and necks as much as 270 degrees in either direction. Owls are farsighted and are unable to see anything clearly within a few centimeters of their eyes. Caught prey can be felt by owls with the use of filoplumes, which are small hair-like feathers on the beak and feet that act as "feelers". Their far vision, particularly in low light, is exceptionally good.

The smallest owl is the Elf Owl (Micrathene whitneyi), at as little as 31 g (1.1 oz) and 13.5 cm (5.3 inches). Some of the pygmy owls are scarcely larger. The largest owls are two of the eagle owls; the Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) and Blakiston's Fish Owl (Bubo blakistoni)—which may reach a size of 60 – 71 cm (28.4 in) long, have a wingspan of almost 2 m (6.6 ft), and an average weight of nearly 4.5 kg (10 lb).

Different species of owls make different sounds; the wide range of calls aids owls in finding mates or announcing their presence to potential competitors, and also aids ornithologists and birders in locating these birds and recognizing species. The facial disc helps to funnel the sound of prey to their ears. In many species, these are placed asymmetrically, for better directional location.[4][verification needed]

The plumage of owls is generally cryptic, but many species have facial and head markings, including face masks, ear tufts and brightly coloured irises. These markings are generally more common in species inhabiting open habitats, and are thought to be used in signalling with other owls in low light conditions.

I am posting here under a maxi card set of Belgium. The stamps are cancelled on 20-2-1999 at Ransart post office. The stamp portion with post mark is cut of and shown below for better view. First set of maxi card is shown below. Second set follows.

My thanks to Wikipidea and other web authors. The information given above are, as appeared in different web sites.

continued.

Birds of prey - owls - FDC - Russia

2010-09-28T18:09:00.000+05:30

28-9-2010

Today I am posting a set of three FDI covers issued by Russia. It shows the owls. The stamp portion is cut off and shown below each of the cover for better view. The post mark is made on 8-2-1990.

Birds of prey - Palau endemic birds

2010-09-24T15:38:00.000+05:30

24-9-2010 - 3-30 PM

Palau - endemic birds

Endemic birds are only a few of Palau's many resident birds. A 1991 survey identified a total of 141 birds in Palau, ranging from endemic birds to resident (birds that stay here all year round, but are also found in other locations), migrant birds (birds that live and breed elsewhere, but stop in Palau while they migrate north and south),vagrant birds (birds that get lost and end up in Palau on their way to someplace else), and even introduced birds (birds that were brought to Palau by man).

The Chesuch (Palau Owl) is the only resident owl in Palau. This very small owl is active at night and stays in dark forests during the day. It has a call that is similar to the call of the Biib.

The Biib (Palau Fruit Dove) is a beautiful dove with green feathers and a purple cap. Legend says that the biib is related to giant clams, and when the tide is low and people are collecting clams, it calls loudly to mourn its lost relatives. It can be heard "cooing" throughout the day and night.

The Omekrengukl or Doldol (Palau Ground Dove) lives in thick forests between Babeldaob and Angaur, although it is very rare on Babeldaob and more common on the Rock Islands. It is the rarest of aU the endemic birds, and may be a globally threatened species. This small dove looks for seeds on the forest floor.

The brown Tutau (Palau Morningbird) is known because of its loud singing early in the morning. It lives in al types of forest except mangroves between Babeldaob and Peleliu.

Today I am posting hereunder a beautiful SS of 6 stamps at 50C of Palau. This souvenir sheet is titled Birds- Endemic Birds of Palau, S/S 6. This colorful souvenir sheet features birds indigenous to the island nation of Palau. The species represented on this sheet are the Palau Owl, the Palau Fruit-dove, the Palau Ground Dove, the Morning Bird, the Palau Megapode, and the Rusty-capped Kingfisher. Comments welcome.

Though the SS is having other birds also, it features my favourite bird for prey - owl.

Birds of rock - Birds of prey - Gibraltar

2010-09-22T17:02:00.001+05:30

22-9-2010 - 4.50 PM

Gibraltar has long been known as a key location for observing birds. The ‘Birds of the Rock’ Definitive focuses on some of the beautiful birds that grace Gibraltar’s skies. Featured birds are:

Eagle Owl: A pair settled in Gibraltar to breed on the Rock’s cliffs during the mid 2000s and has remained in Gibraltar since. Our resident pair is present all year round.

Mediterranean Shag - A small breeding colony of 5-8 pairs of this threatened seabird breeds in sea caves along the east side of Rock. The Gibraltar colony is possibly the only one left on mainland Iberia.

European Bee-eater - These very colourful, tropical-looking birds migrate past Gibraltar in some numbers during the spring and late summer. They breed mainly around the Mediterranean but also in central Europe.

Hoopoe - The Hoopoe breeds throughout the Mediterranean and is known to many locals as ‘Gallito de Marzo’. They are particularly noticeable around the Alameda Gardens in March during its main migration period every spring.

Bonelli’s Eagle - Formally resident in Gibraltar, it still breeds in Spain and young birds are sometimes seen on the Rock. It bred in here until the early 20th Century, its disappearance probably a result of the disturbance caused during the runway construction.

Honey Buzzard: A very numerous passage migrant at Gibraltar during the late spring and late summer. Among the most numerous of birds of prey past Gibraltar during migration periods.

Lesser Kestrel: This small, endangered falcon breeds in Gibraltar and also migrates past the Rock, to and from its African wintering quarters. Ten to fifteen pairs breed on the cliffs at North Front. Their traditional feeding grounds in nearby Spain have all but disappeared and the Rock’s population is threatened with extinction.

Razorbill: A succession of flocks of these migrants can often be seen from Europa Point, the birds passing in tight groups low over the water. The whirring flight is distinctive. A few individuals are often seen fishing inshore in winter, even in the harbour.

Woodchat Shrike: a common migrant through Gibraltar, particularly during the spring when birds are often observed sitting on tombstones at North Front Cemetery.

Blue Rock Thrush: An attractive, large, bluish songbird which is a fairly common species on cliffs around Gibraltar throughout the whole year. It is sometimes also found on buildings and rooftops in town, especially during the winter.

Balearic Shearwater: This scarce bird only nests in the Balearic islands but regularly migrates past Gibraltar to and from the Atlantic. Some are nearly always to be seen off Europa Point and large movements sometimes occur. As with other shearwaters, the rapid wave-skimming flight is distinctive.

My thanks to Gibraltar Philatelic Bureau Limited.. I am posting two FDICs along with the stamps in loose and the stamp portion cut of from the FDIC. comments welcome.

Birds of prey - Eagles - WWF - Malta

2010-09-08T14:06:00.001+05:30

8-9-2010 2 PM

Today I am showing hereunder a set of FDIC issued by Malta under WWF. The stamps have picture of eagles. The stamp is post marked at Valetta, Malta on 3-10-1991. The stamp portion with post mark is cut off from all the four FDIC and shown for better view.

Butterfly - Tanzania

2010-08-19T17:25:00.000+05:30

19-8-2010
Today I am showing hereunder the information on butterfly of Tanzania in the first picture. The second one is the FDC and 4 stamps in loose. The date stamp mark is on 27-10-2005. The third one is a sheetlet of six stamps and a MS.

Butterfly - Ukraine

2010-08-12T16:59:00.000+05:30

12-8-2010
Today I am posting a beautiful SS on butterfly of Ukraine. Comments welcome

Butterfly - Liechtenstein

2010-08-07T13:39:00.000+05:30

7-8-10
I am posting hereunder official FDC of Liechtenstein having four stamps of butterfly. The post mark bears
7-9-09 - In the second picture below this FDC, the stamps are separately shown for better view. comments welcome

Birds of prey - Cezck Rep

2010-08-07T10:50:00.000+05:30

7-8-2010

Today I a showing a SS of cezck Rep. It contains birds of prey and other species. It also got some butterflies, insects, other faunas in natural habitats. Comments welcome.

Birds of prey - Liberia

2010-08-06T12:19:00.000+05:30

6-8-2010
Today I am showing hereunder a SS of Liberia having stamps of birds of that country. It also has some birds of prey like eagles. comments welcome.

Birds - Paradise Flycatcher

2010-07-24T13:02:00.000+05:30

24-7-2010
Paradise Flycatchers - Some information

The paradise-flycatchers, Terpsiphone, are a genus of monarch flycatchers. The genus ranges across Africa and Asia, as well as a number of islands. A few species are migratory, but the majority are resident. The most telling characteristic of the genus is the long tail streamers of the males of many species. In addition to the long tails the males and females are sexually dimorphic and have rufous, black and white plumage. The paradise-flycatchers have the widest distribution of any of the monarch-flycatchers, ranging across sub-Saharan Africa, southern and eastern Asia and down into Southeastern Asia.[1] At the northern extreme of its range it reaches Korea and Afghanistan. The species also occurs on a number of islands, including those of Indonesia and the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan, as well as Madagascar, the Mascarenes and the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean and Sao Tome off Africa's Atlantic coast.

The paradise-flycatchers inhabit a range of habitat types, from rainforest to montane forest, woodlands, savanna, mangroves, riparian forest, deciduous forests and bamboo groves, some species will also move into gardens and cultivated habitat.

Several species of paradise-flycatcher are migratory. The Japanese Paradise-flycatcher is almost entirely migratory, breeding in Korea and Japan and wintering in the Philippines, Malaysia and Sumatra. It does however also occur in Taiwan, where the population is apparently resident. The Asian Paradise-flycatcher is migratory in the northern parts of its range, breeding as far north as Afghanistan, northern China and Korea, but all populations north of southern China move south during the winter. The movements of the other species are not fully understood, but most are thought to be resident. Several subspecies of the African Paradise-flycatcher are apparently intra-African migrants, but little is known about these movements.

Here under I post two sets of Maxi cards of Seychelles Post with stamps and post marked with WWF marking on 12-7-1996. The stamp portion and the post mark are cut and given below for better view. Indian stamp of Rs. 50 denomination on flycatcher is also shown finally. comments welcome

Butterfly - Guernsey Post

2010-07-24T11:07:00.000+05:30

24th July 2010

Today I am showing two sets of [4] FDCs issued by Guernsey Post. The covers were issued under WWF on butterfly of Guernsey. Values 26, 37, 18, 25 cents.

The portion showing stamps and the WWF post mark dated 12-2-1997 are cut off and shown below for a clear view of the butterfly / moth and the post mark available. The post marks have butterfly picture in it. Comments welcome

Birds of prey - eagles

2010-07-06T18:53:00.000+05:30

6-7-2010

Yet another posting on birds of prey - first is a cover having stamp of eagle from Canada
Second is MS of Gibratar. This MS is brought out paring wings of prey having stamps
airplanes. The third is paired with MS of birds of prey. This series is having 4 MSs. Two are
shown below. Other two will be posted later on. comments welcome

Butterfly - Maxi - Belgium

2010-07-06T13:17:00.000+05:30

6-7-2010

Today I am showing two sets of Maxi cards of Butterfly of Belgium. The cards are cancelled with post mark with different type of cancellation marks. Comments welcome

I do not know whether the above is in full set or not.

Birds of prey - owls and eagle

2010-06-21T14:16:00.000+05:30

21-6-2010

Today I am posting two MS on birds of prey - eagles and owls. Comments welcome

Birds of prey - eagles

2010-06-16T17:40:00.000+05:30

16-6-2010

Today i am posting two maxi cards showing picture of eagles of CCCP with stamps. the post mark shows zebra. details like date etc., are not known. comments welcome. also i do not know whether it is full in set or not.

Birds - birds of prey - owls

2010-06-10T10:13:00.000+05:30

10-6-2010

Today I am posting two covers here under.One is from Bulgaria and the other one from South Africa. Both have stamps of owls of their countries. The real posted cover of RSA is having stamps of international letter postage without denomination.

Butterfly - Cuba

2010-06-05T12:08:00.000+05:30

5-6-2010

Now I am posting information on Cuba and followed by six maxi cards of cuban butterfly stamp affixed with post mark.

Cuba

Cuba is an island in the Caribbean. It is roughly fish-shaped, and is placed east-to-west. The Atlantic Ocean is to the southeast, the Gulf of Mexico/Caribbean Sea is to the northwest. Ninety miles north is Florida, ninety-one miles south is Jamaica, and fifty-four miles northeast are the Bahamas.

Cuba has two unique butterflies that are found nowhere else, both giants of their families, and both rare. They are the Avellaneda's Sulfer (named after a famous Cuban artist), and the Homerus Swallowtail, with a wingspan of over six inches. The Sulfer is bright yellow with brilliant orange and red patches, and a deep ochre-orange underside. The huge Swallowtail is black with spectacularly contrasty yellow bands, and orange and blue spots on the hindwing. The underisde is variably suffused with brown and orange. Besides these two standouts, Cuba's butterfly fauna is very similar to that of other Neotropical areas, with species such as Mestras, Monarchs, Angled-sulfers, Purplewings, Preponas, Leafwings, Giant-sulfers, the White Peackock, the Caribbean Peacock, the Red Rim, the Malachite (mentioned above) and various others.

Butterfly - general

2010-06-05T11:58:00.001+05:30

5-6-2010 - 11-53 AM

Today I am posting a paper cutting on butterfly.

Birds of prey - eagles

2010-06-01T13:36:00.000+05:30

1-6-2010 - 1-15 PM

Today I am posting two sets of FDC issued by WWF having picture and stamps of eagles. The covers are post marked at GPO., George Town, Guyana on 23-1-1990. Comments welcome.

birds of prey - owl

2010-05-10T20:33:00.000+05:30

10th May 2010

The Owls are the order Strigiformes, comprising 200 extant bird of prey species. Most are solitary, and nocturnal, with some exceptions (e.g. the Northern Hawk Owl). Owls hunt mostly small mammals, insects, and other birds, though a few species specialize in hunting fish. They are found in all regions of the Earth except Antarctica, most of Greenland, and some remote islands. Though owls are typically solitary, the literary collective noun for a group of owls is a parliament. Living owls are divided into two families: the typical owls, Strigidae; and the barn-owls, Tytonidae.

Owls have large forward-facing eyes and ear-holes, a hawk-like beak, a flat face, and usually a conspicuous circle of feathers, a facial disc, around each eye. Although owls have binocular vision, their large eyes are fixed in their sockets, as with other birds, and they must turn their entire head to change views. Most birds of prey sport eyes on the sides of their heads, but the stereoscopic nature of the owl's forward-facing eyes permits a greater sense of depth perception necessary for low-light hunting.Owls are farsighted and are unable to see anything clearly within a few centimeters of their eyes. Caught prey can be felt by owls with the use of filoplumes, which are small hair-like feathers on the beak and feet that act as "feelers". Their far vision, particularly in low light, is exceptionally good. Contrary to popular myth, an owl cannot turn its head completely backwards. It can turn its head 135 degrees in either direction; it can thus look behind its own shoulders, with a total 270-degree field of view.

Grosbeak a form taxon containing several species of seed-eating passerine birds with large beaks. Although they all belong to the superfamily Passeroidea, they are not a natural group but rather a polyphyletic assemblage of distantly related songbirds. The cover shows rose breast bird.

Here under I post a beautiful first day of issue cover of USA with stamps of owl and grosbeck and also one ordinary cover having picture of owl. The cover is cancelled on 28th May 1988 at Arlington, USA.. The stamps used on the cover are taken out from stamp book.

Birds of prey

2010-05-01T10:34:00.000+05:30

1st May 2010 - Happy May day wishes to all viewers. I am posting here under two sets of FDCs issued under WWF having cancellation date 1983. The cancellation cachet is showing the flying picture of eagle/vulture. The Stamps are of Magyar Posta. Both sets contain individual 4 FDCs.

Bird - Birds of prey-vulture/eagles

2010-04-15T07:13:00.000+05:30

Today I post here under two sets of beautiful FDC issued under WWF. The stamps used are Philllipines and date stamped on 31-7-1991 at Central Post Office, Manila. Will post many more covers under WWF from now on.

Birds - USA

2010-03-30T21:24:00.000+05:30

0915 PM - 30-3-2010
Humming Bird

Today I am posting a beautiful FDIC of USPS depicting humming bird. It is date stamped on 15-6-1992 at Washington DC 20066. The stamp cancellation itself is designed like a humming bird. The picture on the stamp is Costa’s humming bird. On the left side of the cover, the replicated 22K gold humming bird is show cased in a plastic capsule with velvet cloth back ground. This is one of the jewels in my albums. Thanks Mr. Hemant

Hummingbird belong to the family of Trochilidae. This is one of the smallest bird and also among the extant small birds species, the Bee Hummingbirds. They can hover in mid-air by rapidly flapping their wings 12–90 times per second and it depends on the species. They can also fly backwards, and are the only group of birds able to do so. Their English name comes from the characteristic hum made by their rapid wing beats. They can fly at speeds exceeding 15 m/s (54 km/h, 34 mi/h). Most hummingbirds have bills that are long and straight or nearly so, but in some species the bill shape is adapted for specialized feeding. Thorn bills have short, sharp bills adapted for feeding from flowers with short corollas and piercing the bases of longer ones.

Hummingbirds are found natively in the Americas, from southern Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, including the Caribbean. The majority of species occur in tropical and subtropical Central and South America, but several species also breed in temperate areas. Only the migratory Ruby-throated Hummingbird breeds in continental North America east of the Mississippi River and Great Lakes. The Black-chinned Hummingbird, its close relative and another migrant, is the most widespread and common species in the western United States, while the Rufous Hummingbird is the most widespread species in western Canada.

Butterfly of Palau

2010-03-29T07:36:00.000+05:30

29-3-2010 - 0730 AM

In continuation of posting on Palau, I am hereunder showing four FDICs. All the FDICs are having silky Cachet on the left showing the exact picture of the butterfly that is on the stamp. Thanks to Hemant who gave me all the five FDICs.

# 35 - Butterfly information

2010-03-28T13:29:00.000+05:30

Here is a newspaper clipping on butterfly emergence link to climatic change

Butterfly of Palau

2010-03-28T09:46:00.000+05:30

28-3-2010 @ 9-50 AM

Today I am posting hereunder a beautiful FDIC issued by Republic of Palau. This FDIC shows four stamps of 44C of different butterflies. The cover was issued on 5-1-1987 at Koror. On the left there is Silk Cachet showing the pictures of the butterflies. This silk cachet is a rare on the FDIC of FDC. The palau post office also issued four different FDIC for each of the stamp shown hereunder, which I post following this posting.

Butterfly - Bhutan

2010-03-17T12:20:00.000+05:30

17-3-2010 - 1215 PM

Bhutan

Bhutan is a himalayan kingdom and ruled by king - viz., Jikme Singye Namgial Vanchuk. This is one of the scenic countries on the Himalayas, having landscapes and also having architecture of its own. This is tourist destination having immense natural beauty with ancient and traditional culture. This country is known for its rich fauna. Capital is Thimbu.

Butterfly

There are roughly around 900 butterfly species in Bhutan, an exceptionally high number for such a small country. Such a degree of diversity is attributed to a number of habitats found in the mountainous terrain and with the people's culture. Most butterflies are beautiful and a few such as the Bhutan Glory and the Kaiser-I-Hind are internationally protected by the Convention on the Inernational Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), to which Bhutan is signatory. These very rare butterflies could be seen accidentally or occasionally.

The study group [or researchers] say that this huge number of species for a small country like Bhutan is really incredible. They also say that in the whole of North America only 680 species were founded // identified and that in Europe for about 450 species. Further, they also report that species of indo-malaysian species are spotted in this country. Among the species, the largest number is found in sub tropical area and an amazing number is seen in the mountains even at an elevation of 5000 MSL. They also studied that those high altitude fluttries fly in the summer only. There are guides with good knowledge to say about the species. We will definitely have the change to enjoy the butterfly species of top varies of the Asian butterfly community.

Here under I post two beautiful MS on butterfly brought out by Bhutan Postal Corporation.

Comments are welcome.

Butterfly - Romania

2010-03-07T09:16:00.001+05:30

7-3-2010 - 9-10 AM India

Today I am posting hereunder a beautiful sheetlet of butterfly and moth of Romania

Details : Left to right - 4 rows having 3 stamps in each row left to right

Graellsia Isabellae             Antocharis Caredamines               Ammobiota Festiva
Polygonia                            Catocala promisa                          Rhyparia
Arctia Villica                      Polyommatus daphnis                    Zerynthia polyxena
Daphnis nerii                       Licaena dispar rutila                     Pararge roxelana

Butterfly of Andamans

2010-03-02T15:26:00.001+05:30

3-25 PM - 2nd March 2010

Today I post hereunder two beautiful FDCs having setenant block of Rs. 5/- stamps.
date stamped on 2-1-2008 at Mumbai, India [both are different type of setenants]
The FDCs were sent to me by Mr.Shrikant Parikh. I thank him for his kind help

Butterfly - Indonesia

2010-02-27T18:16:00.000+05:30

27-2-2010 6-00 PM-India

Butterfly of Indonesia

I think butterfly is the most beautiful insect in the world. I know these lovely creatures only live for about 2 weeks to 2 months but their live have given the beautiful colors to the world.

Indonesia is a country having more than 13.000 islands, harbour a rich diversity of lives. Many butterfies of Indonesia have wide distributions, but those which are very restricted, and even live as endemic species in many places in Indonesia islands are not less. Indonesian butterflies possess great diversity not only in species but also in size, colour and markings. Despite their great diversity, because of forest degradations, hunting and trades, many species are now threatened with extinction. I feel that this is to be stopped by a legislation by the government to strictly follow.

Being just eight degrees below the Equator, Bali has the type of climate that is pleasing and relatively mild although warm. It is an island that has a diverse range of animal species. The butterflies are found fluttering around the gardens. But it can be well seen in their natural habitats. Bali Butterfly Park is the opportunity to encounter rare and endemic species from all of that part, The park is natural looking with hundreds and colourfull butterfly are released to flying everyday, and among of them are famous species of the world such as Spectacular Bird Wing Butterfly ( Ornithoptera and Troides) Swallow tails and great mormon( Papilio).

Bali Butterfly Park = It was built in 1996 and managed by PT. Taman Kupu Kupu Lestari. In this park hundreds of butterfly of various colors are seen including the famous Bird of Heaven (Omithoptera Paradisea), Omithoptera Priamus. Also various kinds of other butterfly native of entire country are also seen. The park trys to develop and cultivate the habit and for the purposes of scientific research and studies in the future of education. Most of the land in Bali Butterfly Park is covered by nets so that the collection is not lost. In addition to observing a variety of collection types and sizes of butterflies in a tropical nature, visitors can see the butterfly's life starting from the caterpillars, chrysalis, to turn into a butterfly. Bali Butterfly Park in this there are hundreds of butterflies from 15 types of butterfly species. Collection of butterflies in this area generally come from Bali. The Bali Butterfly Park covers 3,500m sq, making it the largest park of its kind in South-East Asia and the park provides an environment for butterfly preservation and study. Located on Jl. Batukaru in the Tabanan Regency, this is Indonesia's only butterfly park. It specialises in breeding and preserving various different kinds of butterflies from Bali and all over Indonesia.

Bantimurung National Park Maros, South Sulawesi, became one of the most popular tourism place for all in Indonesia, for both local, national and foreign tourists. The National Park is a natural park that people of South Sulawesi proud of. Its location which is in the valley with a steep limestone hill and tropical vegetation create good environment to enjoy. This Park is also famous for its waterfalls, caves, and the butterfly. Some unique species found only in Sulawesi, which is Troides helena Linne, Troides hypolitus Cramer, Troides haliphron Boisduval, Papilo adamantius, and Cethosia myrana. Some decades ago one of the study group members [or research fellow] visited here and spent his time to examine different types of butterflies. He reportedly said that Bantimurung is ‘The Kingdom of Butterfly’ (the kingdom of butterflies).

Today I post a beautiful Indonesian butterfly MS followed by a block of four stamps

[This is not a full set - it is a block of full sheet of butterfly]

Names : Dalias Kristianiae Mastrigt [named after first lady of Indonesia]

Ornithoptora acsacus Ney

Ornithoptera Crocsus

Troides Mywpolita each 1500 Indo.rupee

butterfly - bannerghatta national park

2010-02-14T14:01:00.000+05:30

2-00 PM 14th Feb 2010

Bannerghatta National Park – Bangaluru, Karnataka, South India

Bannerghatta National Park established in the year 1971, lies 22 km. away from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka state. It covers around 104.27 sq.kms which includes ten Reserve Forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division. Bannerghatta comprises the National Park, an Aquarium, a Zoo, Children's park, Crocodile Farm, Snake park, Prehistoric animals park and a Museum.

One of the major attractions of the Bannerghatta National Park is a Butterfly Park, the first of its kind in India. The park is a combined effort of the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, University of Agricultural Sciences and the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment (ATREE). Union Minister of Science and Technology Kapil Sibal inaugurated the park on 25^th November 2006. Spread over an area of 7.5 acres, it comprises of a butterfly conservatory, a museum and an audio-visual room.

The butterfly conservatory is a circular enclosure stretching over an area of 10,000 sq ft, covered by a polycarbonate roof. There are approximately 20 species of butterflies at the conservatory, which has an adjusted environment that suits the butterflies. The setting is entire tropical, with humid climate and an artificial waterfall. The flora of the conservatory includes those plants and shrubs that attract butterflies. As we move forward from the conservatory, we will come across the second and third dome, which house a museum. The museum has numerous dioramas and exhibits on display.

The butterfly conservatory has a polycarbonate roof and is a 10,000 sq ft circular enclosure, inside which the living environment has been carefully designed to support over 20 species of butterflies. Visitors to Bangaluru, should also have a visit here to feel the natural habitats and environment.

Hereunder I post the special cover dated 23-5-2009 brought out on the occasion of introducing permanent pictorial cancellation in Bannerghatta PO 560083 of Bangaluru followed by a prepaid envelope of Rs. 5-00 INR date stamped on 18-1-2010. thanks to Mr. Mansoor, Mangalore for supplying me this special cover.

butterfly-chile

2010-02-14T13:17:00.000+05:30

1-15 PM = 14-2-2010

Today I like to show a beautiful s.s of chilean butterfly. views and comments are welcom

Butterfly of Andaman and Nicobar Isle., India

2010-01-29T13:55:00.000+05:30

Butterfly of Andamans - India

General information about Andaman Islands of Rep.of India

The Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) archipelago comprises of about 556 small and big islands covering an area of 8,249 sq km with a coastline of 1,962 km between 92-94 0 E longitude and 6-14 0 N latitude in the Bay of Bengal (Fig.1). The northern group of islands form the Andaman Islands, while the southern group of islands form the Nicobar Islands, which is separated by 10 0 channel. Evergreen and littoral forests, mangroves and coral reefs are important components of the existing ecosystems prevailing in the islands.

BUTTERFLIES

The butterfly diversity and endemism is also very high, of the 214 species and 236 subspecies in 116 genera, over 50 percent are endemic. The A&N Islands house some of the larger and most spectacular butterflies of the world. Ten species are endemic to these Islands. Mount Harriet National Park is one of the richest areas of butterfly and moth diversity on these Islands. In this area of the country survey has been carried out in twenty five islands by the study group to take stock of the patterns of the distribution and its abundance. Different habitat has been identified in each of the island and the insects were sampled out. The study group recorded 65 species of six families. Of this 51 species were found to be less common and bore 25% of total samples. Six species were also found to be common. In the larger islands, many uncommon species were also found by the study group. Small and medium size islands accounted for more species than those which had no ever green forests.

Here under I post special stamps brought out in January, 2008 by India on Butterfly of Andamans and followed by the brochure.

Butterfly of Czech Republic

2010-01-25T16:46:00.000+05:30

4-40 PM - 25th January 2010

Czech Republic

This country offers a wonderful diversity of limestone meadows, high mountains, pristine beech and conifer forests, and lowland wetlands rich in birdlife. We travel from the White Carpathians, along the borders of the Czech Republic, through the subalpine, and up to alpine regions in the High Tatras, finishing on very warm southern slopes of the Slovak Karst.

The butterflies that grace the Czech Republic are more varied and more frequent than those we see in England. Some are quite plain – butterflies from the woods in a range of browns and subtle dappled. Others are lighter - large and small brimstones, frittilaries, swallowtails, others are familiar like the many peacocks and tortoiseshells.

A comparative study and research was conducted in the country to know the population, increase in the species and habitats for the less migrants, extinct species, recent arrivals and extremely rare species. The team found that there was an increase in 15 and 12 species, respectively. Main conclusion Altitude shifts in the distribution of Czech butterflies are already detectable on the coarse scales of standard distribution maps. The increasing species do not show any consistent pattern in habitat affiliations, conservation status and mountain against. non mountain distribution

In total there are 161 native species of butterfly in Czech Republic according to Czech Etymologists, most of the 141 species of day butterflies, who range in the Czech Republic, live in the capital or its close surroundings. And some species, like Eastern Baton Blue or Grayling even have their last hopeful populations.

Here I post a beautiful MS of Czech Republic 2002 - WWF series

Butterfly of USA

2010-01-19T14:54:00.000+05:30

19-1-2010

Butterfly - United States of America

The largest butterfly that can be found naturally in the United States is the Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes) with a wing span of 4-6 inches, and is known as the "Orange Dog" by local citrus growers. Giant, Thoas, and female Tiger Swallowtails are the largest of the North American butterflies.

MONARCH - The Monarch is probably the most widely recognized of all North American butterflies. The monarch is unique among North American butterflies in performing an annual two-way migration in vast numbers from one area of the continent to another. Probably no other insect among the millions of species on earth performs a similar migration. Individual research fellows and scientists still have much more to learn about how individual monarchs are able to return each year to over wintering sites and breeding grounds they have never seen.

Based on estimates of the number of butterflies over wintering in California, the eastern monarch population currently numbers in the tens of millions [ may vary ], while the smaller western population numbers in the millions. Data will indicate that the size of both populations fluctuates regularly. due to winter storm mortality, poor breeding conditions, predation, parasites, disease, and other pressures in combination with each other. In the past, both populations have suffered losses approaching 90 percent but have recovered because the surviving 10 percent experienced excellent conditions in the breeding range.

While a fluctuating population size appears to be the norm for monarchs, the eastern population is now suffering consistently higher levels of mortality. This may be reducing the population size to a level from which it cannot recover itself. The main reason for the decline in monarch populations has been the periodic natural disasters at the Mexican over-wintering sites. Some sites may sustain losses of anywhere from 30 to 90 percent during winter storms. Human alteration of the habitat, particularly the opening of forests by logging, has reduced the protective effect of the forest canopy. This has increased the negative effects of winter storms and has made the over wintering monarchs more susceptible to predation from birds and mammals.

In the past, these disasters have been counterbalanced by the increase in breeding habitat in eastern North America. However, widespread and increasing use of herbicides throughout North America may also result in dwindling fall migrations in the next few years, due to the eradication of host plants for larvae and nectar sources for adults in the breeding range. Without effective protection of the Mexican over wintering sites as well as protection of breeding habitats and nectar sources along migration routes in Canada and the United States, the eastern population of the monarch may become extirpated in North America early this century. “Extirpated” means that a species no longer exists in the wild in a particular location although it may occur elsewhere.

Nearly 20 species of butterflies in the United States are protected by the Endangered Species Act (four other species are covered by the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITIES), but none are native to North America). With so many endangered and threatened species, the U.S. has become a target for wildlife entrepreneurs. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials estimate that some rare butterflies taken from U.S. parks, if preserved in good condition, sell for up to $500 to avid collectors.

The importance of butterflies in many ecosystems, however, would seem to support measures designed to restrict their capture and trade. Butterflies make their primary contribution to the environment through pollination. Many species, like the Monarch butterfly, are closely associated with a companion plant species, and their symbiotic relationship determines the welfare of both species. Yet, most species of butterflies are so numerous that collecting and trading, even on a large scale, pose no serious risks. While there is no accurate data on the scope of global trade in butterflies, one can predict with confidence that it does not threaten the vast majority of species. Only those types of butterflies whose habitat is in decline (through development, pollution, etc.) are in any danger of extinction. Butterflies whose habitat is threatened in this manner may well become extinct even without unauthorized collecting and trading, but poaching will certainly accelerate their demise.

Butterfly parks, houses and farms in the USA

There are hundreds of parks in the USA and in many numbers in all the states, hopefully barring a few ones. But some of them are listed out hereunder. Full list of parks and houses, farms cannot be shown here since it may run into several pages, making the readers to feel it a fatigue. - I post here under USA stamps showing picture of butterfly of a particular year along with a postally used envelope.

Top row - envelope - only stamp and cancellation shown.
Bottom row - loose stamps

All stamps price are 13C - stamps named left to right two rows

Papilio origoneous - swallowtail Euphydryas Phaeton - Checkerspot
Colias eurydice - Dog face Anthocaris midea - Orangetip

NABA International Butterfly Park - Texas -Unlike various butterfly conservatories that have been built across the United States, NABA International Butterfly Park provides intensive outdoor gardens of native nectar plants and specific caterpillar host plants as well as natural habitat to attract large numbers of wild butterflies and conserve rare native butterflies. In the few short years since the NABA International Butterfly Park opened, it has already been the sight of a few record sightings, butterflies never before spotted in the United States. The close proximity to Mexico and the Rio Grande gives ample opportunity for species to cross over into the United States. More than 300 species of butterflies have been found in the Rio Grande Valley, and nearly 200 different species have been spotted at the NABA International Butterfly Park. -In addition to the butterflies, the NABA International Butterfly Park is revegetating its land with rare native plants, giving visitors the chance to experience and learn about the Rio Grande Valley’s native flora and fauna. = =

ALABAMA Biophilia Nature Center's Butterfly Garden - Elberta, AL - Small indoor garden with native butterflies in all stages of the life cycle, in season. The Center consists of 20 acres which are being restored with native vegetation, including wildflower meadows full of butterfly larva and adult host plants. Hours change seasonally and cost is minimal or none, depending upon the season.

HAWAII -Foster Botanical Garden Butterfly Habitat - This butterfly habitat was dedicated 11/21/08. It is a joint venture between the City & County of Honolulu and The Butterfly Society of Hawaii. Garden is certified by North American Butterfly Association. Open to the public 9-4 daily. Admission $5 to the whole botanical garden, of which this is a new attraction.

Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden -Strong Museum, Rochester, NY -The first and only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York. A lush rain-forest environment and walk among approximately 800 brilliantly-colored, free-flying tropical and native butterflies that flutter about (and may even land on shoulders or hands). A paved path leads guests through tropical foliage and two water features, including a cascading waterfall. Visit the chrysalis case and see emerging butterflies.

Butterfly House - Ohio -419-877-2733 dwheeler@butterfly-house.com -The Butterfly House contains over 500 butterflies with many different species from North & South America and Asia. The facility was built with the idea of developing beautiful gardens in a controlled environment to exhibit butterflies to the general public. An opportunity to learn about the life cycle of the butterfly and how to promote a healthy environment for these special insects will be provided as well.

Franklin Park Conservatory - Butterflies and Blooms Exhibit - over 100 species from 5 continents fly free in a 50,000 sq foot Pacific Islands and cloud forest exhibit. Visitors can watch the emerging of 100's of butterflies from pupae in our Emergence Center. 1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH

River Bend Nature Center -Butterfly Conservatory

Wichita Falls, Texas Initially conceived and built as a home for native butterflies, the Ruby N. Priddy Conservatory has grown far beyond a butterfly house since it opened to the public in the spring of 2007. Visitors will find a fascinating cross-section of the plants, insects, and other animals that make their living on five ecoregions of Texas and Southern Oklahoma.

Butterfly of California-USA

2010-01-19T14:38:00.000+05:30

19-1-2010 = 2.35 PM

Hit on Californian Butterfly - USA

Here under I post a news paper clipping for the information of readers.

Largest Butterfly of the world

2010-01-19T14:13:00.000+05:30

19-1-2010 - 2.30 PM

Largest butterfly of the world

The largest butterfly in the world is the Queen Alexandra's Birdwing (Ornithoptera alexandrae). This huge, poisonous butterfly lives in the rain forests of Papua, New Guinea, and is an endangered species with a wing span of 11 inches. Males of the species are much smaller than females. The second-largest butterfly in the world is the Goliath Birdwing and is seen in Indonesian rainforests and has a wingspan up to 11 inches as well.

Butterfly of USA

2010-01-13T18:25:00.000+05:30

13-1-2010 - 6 PM

Information on Karnar Blue of USA

The Karner blue butterfly (Lycaedes melissa samuelis) was first described more than a century ago in Karner, New York. It is a small butterfly, with a wingspan of about one inch. The male's wings are distinctively marked with a silvery or dark blue color.

Karner blues are found in the northern range of wild lupine habitat. Wild lupine(Lupinus perennis) is a small, often attractively flowered plant that occurs in pine barrens and oak savannas in New Hampshire, New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana and Minnesota. The Karner blue's habitat is likely to be a patchwork of pitch pine and scrub oak scattered among open grassy areas. Historically, a network of these openings among the trees was maintained by wildfire, and at one time the butterfly was found in this habitat in a nearly continuous narrow band across 10 states and one province. Today it has been eliminated from at least five of these states. In the Northeast today, suitable habitat for the Karner blue is found in the Albany Pine Bush of New York and the Concord Pine Barrens of New Hampshire.

Some more information on butterfly of USA and pictures of stamps will follow in a day or two

Butterfly of Hungary-Magyar

2010-01-04T18:08:00.000+05:30

Dear friends,
In the last few days, I did not keep good health and I stayed away from blogging. Now I am posting some thing of Hungary.

Butterfly - General

Many butterflies migrate in order to avoid adverse environmental conditions (like cold weather). Butterfly migration is not well understood. Some can migrate only short distances but others migrate thousands of miles.

After bees, butterflies are the second largest group of pollinators. To increase harvests, useful insect like bees and butterflies should not be harmed, butterflies are not only attractive but also nice friends.

Butterfly - Hungary

This wonderful country brims with culture and natural beauty. The Hungary's butterfly population is without parallel larger than anywhere else in Europe

Hungary is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains that hold many attractive mountain species while within the Carpathian Basin we can find an amazing variety of different habitats ranging from special wet meadows, alkaline marshes, steppes through to extensive oak, beech, evergreen woods, limestone slopes and volcanic hills. No wonder that Hungary is one of the richest countries in the Old Continent in terms of butterfly and dragonfly species. The country hosts almost 200 butterfly species including Hungarian Glider, Southern Festoon, Lesser Clouded Yellow, Large Blue, Iolas Blue, Zephyr Blue, Large Copper, Freyer's Purple Emperor, Poplar Admiral, Scarce Fritillary and many more. Tours are conducted to visit the finest butterfly habitats of the country covering more than 120 species.

Hungary has been long established as one of Europe top bird watching home. But this beautiful country land locked at the heart of the continent is less well known for its butterfly. The modern farming practice is increasing. But many areas still framed with low intensity, wild life friendly techniques for generations. As a result, butterfly still flourish and these beauties of nature are common site in the flower meadows and woodlands. It is reported that nearly 200 species are found in this area, which is also reportedly well over three times that are found in the Britains.

Aggtelek National Park - This lies along Hungary border with Slovakia which is in 4 hour reach from the capital. This is situated in one of the most sceneic parts of the country.In Aggtelek National Park we can watch and see for ourself a mixture of habitats ranging from very dry hillsides to wet valleys. These areas boast a terrific list of butterflies and we should be in for quite a treat. We expect to find such rare species as Eastern Short-tailed, Osiris, Mountain Alcon, Large, Chapman's and Anomalous Blue, Lesser Spotted and Pallas's Fritillary, Hungarian and Common Glider, Purple Emperor and Large Tortoiseshell

Bukk Hills

The heart of the Bükk Hills is famous for its karst plateau. The place attract hill toppers like the Common and Scarce Swallowtails with a possible late Clouded Apollo. Southern Small White, Mountain Green-veined White and Fenton’s Wood White will be among the more challenging species to seek out. In the Hor Valley, several Copper species fly in this area including Purple-shot, Large, Scarce and Purple-edged, joined by Small, Chestnut and Pearly Heath. Duke of Burgundy, High Brown and Niobe Fritillary are all common species.

The Hortobágy Region area is also having great butterfly species as well such as Swallowtail, Scarce Swallowtail, Eastern Bath White, Eastern Pale Clouded Yellow, Large Copper, Grizzled Skipper and Small Skipper.

Hungary’s geographic position and complex climate make it a fascinating place for those interested in butterflies. After the last ice ages, species from Southern Europe, the Balkans as well as from Asia and Asia Minor dispersed into the Carpathian Basin. The varied climate, with continental, boreal and Mediterranean influences, facilitated this process. As a result, Hungary now combines butterflies that are familiar to theWestern European traveller with Asian and Mediterranean species. Prominent members of these two categories are the Pallas’s Fritillary and the Cardinal respectively. Recently, we have witnessed very interesting dispersive behavior of these two large fritillaries. All over Europe, 2003 was a year when the prevailing conditions favoured such dispersal. In the first half of July, after an exceptionally hot and dry spring, both the Pallas’s Fritillary and the Cardinal were on the move in Hungary, the Pallas’s travelling westwards and the Cardinal moving north. Butterflies of each species settled in a beautiful valley along the south eastern edge of the Bükk Hills in north eastern Hungary, far from where they were originally found. In the five years prior to 2003 both species were absent here. The valley has a good population of Corncrakes and is being managed so that the birds are not disturbed during the breeding season. This delay in mowing till late summer benefits Pallas’s Fritillary

The conservationists may describe a valley in Hungary that is butterfly paradise as well. A survey in this damp stream-valley some years ago, produced an incredible 68 butterfly species. Particularly striking were the 16 Fritillary species, including Dark Green, High Brown, Silver washed and Marbled. In addition, we observed Camberwell Beauty, Lesser Purple and Purple Emperor, Large Tortoiseshell and Common Glider. Earlier in the season, Scarce Fritillary, Clouded Apollo, Chequered Skipper and seven other species were sighted. Threats Unfortunately, expansion of such exciting butterflies is mirrored by the decline of others. As elsewhere in Europe, the biggest threat centres on the abandonment of traditional pastures, hayfields and forest-steppe habitat. Forest-steppes were once home to the Danube Clouded Yellow. This species is on the verge of extinction not just in Hungary but globally, due to the cessation of coppice management and loss of forest pasture. The importance of hayfields can be illustrated by the decline in numbers of Dusky and Scarce Large Blues, Marsh Fritillaries and Large Coppers. Although not yet rare, because their habitat is still relatively common, traditional management has disappeared from most of the localities. Pastures provide habitat for several rare Hungarian species. The Anomalous Blue and Osiris Blue are species that originate from The Balkans. They need large populations of the host plant, Sanfoin, which occurs on dry, unproductive sites. Afforestation and cessation of grazing are the primary threats to these enigmatic species. Opportunities There is a growing interest in Hungary and neighboring countries as destinations for butterfly holidays. The decline of biodiversity in the West encourages eco tourists to explore countries to the East. This is a sad but hopeful development, as eco-tourism may stimulate local authorities to maintain their natural resources. It is reported that the promotion given by the EU of intensive cultivation of waste land, there is growing danger of the destruction of large swathes of butterfly habitats in Hungary.

Hereunder I also post some stamps of Magyar Posta. The set may not be full. However, I would like to share some more later on.

butterfly of Malaysia

2009-12-16T16:32:00.000+05:30

16-12-2009 - 5 PM India

Malaysia Butterfly - MS

In continuation of my posting on butterfly of Malaysia, I am posting hereunder one beautiful Miniature of Malaysia. Details are :

Five Bar Swordtail - Graphium Antiphates - Value RM5 - 2008 Jakarta

In this picture the design on the both side outer edge of the perforation shows the five swords and the paper is cut in the same design.

Butterfly of India

2009-12-10T10:28:00.000+05:30

10-15 AM

Butterfly General

The word butterfly has curious origins. Butterflies get their name from the yellow brimstone butterfly of Europe that is first seen in the early spring or "butter" season? The Anglo- Saxons used the word Butterfloege because their most common butterfly was the yellow brimstone butterfly. The spread of the English colonies and their subsequent influence on the natives carried forward in the butterfly tradition. In many languages butterfly means “licker of milk”. The Russians call them Babochka, meaning little soul. Ancient civilizations have depicted butterflies as little angels or souls, such that when people die, their souls go to heaven as butterflies. The importance of butterflies in many early civilizations is recorded in prehistoric caves and their depiction in pottery and fresco paintings. The best known example is the representation of the goddess Xochiquetzal in the form of a two-tailed, swallow-tailed butterfly. In all irrespective of age, people from all walks of life associate butterflies as friendly and soothing to the eyes, mind body and soul. We can very well smell and see if the air is good and clean, as we see a fluttering butterfly - which avoids polluted air.

Butterfly of India

Biologists estimate that worldwide there are about 150,000 different species of butterflies and moths, in which approximately 30,000 belong to the butterfly species. The size of a few species of butterflies ranges from less than an inch in size to a wing span of about 10 inches. The smallest species are no bigger than a fingernail and the largest swallowtails are larger than the smallest birds. The world’s tiniest known species, the blue pygmy (Brephidium exilis), is found in Southern California and has a wing span of just over half an inch. Both the world’s smallest butterflies occur in peninsular India. The largest species, the New Guineas Queen Alexandria’s bird wing (Ornithoptera Alexandrae) can measure up to twelve inches from wingtip to wingtip. The Goliath Bird wing butterfly is the second-largest butterfly in the world.

Butterflies and moths are some of the most fascinating and eye-catching flying insects. A vast majority are brightly coloured and are found all over the world, except in the Antarctica region. They are indeed one of the planet’s most beautiful creatures. People from all walks of life, irrespective of race, colour or religion enjoy these beautiful winged flying jewels for their delicate beauty. In India, most butterfly species are found associated with tropical rainforests.

Papilionidae, the swallowtail butterfly family, consists of about 550 species of which 84 are found in India. Most swallowtails are large, brilliantly coloured and extremely beautiful. Butterflies from this family are commonly found in both tropical and temperate habitats.

The metalmark butterflies get their name from the small metallic looking spots that are commonly found on their wings. In India these butterflies are commonly known as the Punches & Judies. There are about 1000 species of metalmark butterflies worldwide of which only 16 are found in India.

A family of generally small butterflies with short stout bodies and a characteristic rapid, skipping flight. They actively feed on flower nectar and most species have proboscises that are much longer than butterflies of any other family. Skippers are very difficult to identify in the field and require close examination and study for specie level identification.

Some of the important farms, reserve area and parks in the Indian peninsular

Surat : [Gujarat State in Western Coast of Indian peninsular]

Surat Butterfly park will have presence of 10,000 butterflies consisting 30 different species. Some of the butterfly species that would be presented in the park are Tony Coaster, Common crow, Indian Cupid, Pell Grass blue, Blue Tiger, Striped Tiger, Common Serulin, Red Pirot, Blue Pensi, Common Coaster, Common Leopard, Common Gull, Common Nawab, Peacock Pensi, Dinide Egg fly, Common Bluebottle, Grey Pensi, Lime Butterfly, Lemon Pensi, Common Rose, Great Egg fly, Blue Mormon, Yellow Pensi, Crimson Rose, Common Mormon, Tailed Jay, Common Emigrant, Red Halon, Common Grass Yellow, Common Jazzble.

Delhi :

The Lodhi Gardens in Delhi is hosting a wide variety of butterflies in a dedicated conservatory that was inaugurated recently.

This is the first of its kind in the capital region of Rep. of India. The New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) is one of the agencies involved in the project. “A portion of the Lodhi Gardens, three acres in size, has been converted into a butterfly conservatory. A small insectory has also been created, with 22 host plants for butterfly larvae. This is the first of its kind in Delhi,

Pune : [ Maharashtra of India on the western coast of peninsular]

The Pune Municipal Corporation funded the park with 50 million rupees. The place has been converted from a dirty drain into a beautiful park.

This park in Pune is the house for hundreds of colourful butterflies. The park is spread across two acres of land in Sahakar Nagar in the city in a greenish habitat and environ. Here the visitors can watch rare species of the butterflies.

This park has been formed due to the reason that the green cover is fast becoming extinct in major cities. This park also comprises of a conservator, museum. There is also an audio visual room having 200 very odd species. on display. It has a rock garden, waterfalls and a very green cover to attract butterflies and this environment will definitely make the visits happy and enjoy the scenes. A track has also been put in the park for jogging. The track has trees on both sides and it runs along the drain. The park has a variety of butterfly such as Plain Tiger, Leg Fancy, Cross Yellow, Common Castor, Common Crow and Lime. According to the forest conservators, the park is an effort to start a gene pool and control depletion of butterflies, which are significant ecological indicators.

Western Ghats of India :

The Western Ghats is home to hundreds of species of rare, endemic and exotic species of colourful butterflies, some of them extremely rare. Some species are so rare that they are found nowhere else in the world. The region boasts of approximately 350 species of butterflies. They come in a variety of sizes with two pairs of large wings. The color pattern varies from species to species and has a definite role to play in the protection of the species. If one were to closely observe the wings, they are covered with overlapping rows of tiny scales. This range starts from South Gujarat and extends upto kanniyakumari in the South. This range has fine tropical rainforests. We can find some of the finest and most colourful and interesting species of this butterfly. Among them, Five Bar Sword tail [pathysa antipathes] is found very much in this area. These Western Ghats have representatives Afro tropical region like Joker [byblia ilithyia], small orange and red tips [colotis sp]

Kerala

Kerala state is a home for about 330 species of butterfly. Of this 37 are endemic to this area. Of the species, the common jezebel [Delias eucharis] is a delightful visitor to this area. Here in the wet and rainy jungles, map butterfly [cyrestis thyodamus] is seen much.

Kerala is one of the eighteen 'biodiversity centres' of the world. This land is home to more than 500 birds and 330 butterfly species, 37 of these endemic to this region. According to Birdlife International, it is also one of eight 'centres of endemism' in the Indian Subcontinent. Comprising of the largest in India, the Southern or Western Ghats Birdwing (Troides minos) with a wingspan of about 25 cms to the smallest, the Grass Jewel (Zizula hylax) with only 1.5 to 2 cm wingspan, the Kerala butterfly fauna is rich, diverse and scientifically very interesting.

Many Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala (officially protected wildlife parks) are a lepidopteran delight - the famous among them being Periyar Tiger Reserve, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. That is not all - Kerala's beautiful countryside can boast of a vast and fascinating variety of butterflies - be it in the myriad plantation areas or your own backyard. For those interested in the butterfly life of Kerala, it would be possible to organise dedicated tours in the company of our experts. The tour will take you through some of the most beautiful regions of India and lasts from 2 days to 15 days. Our guides are well versed in spotting the endemics as well as the most elusive ones.

Auroville, Pondicherry

Of the 1500 species, 315 live in South india. Butterfly seen here are among the most common species of India. But they are found to be tough ones.

Eastern India :

This area is a home for more than 1200 species and is considered to be the richest butterflying area not only in India but in the entire oriental regions. This region comprises of the Eastern Himalayas.

Mahim - maharashtra of Western India = Mahim National Park

For the last two years, MNP has been developing a butterfly park on a three acre plot in its premises with funding of Rs 2 lakh from MMRDA. A lot of trees have been planted such as the peepal, kadamba, sweet neem to attract butterflies. Over the last two years the number of species has more than doubled. Initially, 34 species have been identified and now it is rated that there are 73 identified species as stated by the Deputy director of MNP. Flowering plants have been planted for nectar and egg-laying. Mud-puddling sites are also being created where butterflies can obtain nutrients like salts. It is believed that the number of butterflies will increase when this work is completed.. The park is already attracting a lot of youngsters every day who come to photograph these beautiful creatures. This park is open from Monday through Saturday between 0930 and 1800 hours and we can visit on holidays and Sundays also with prior permission. Guides are provided on request for which giving prior intimation is a must.

VISAKHAPATNAM : [Eastern Coast]

The Department of Zoology of Andhra University, which boasts some rare collections in its museum, now has a colourful attraction, in the shape of a butterfly park. Nearly 125 butterflies belonging to 20 species fluttering around displaying a mosaic of colours in a large fabricated butterfly house covered by a net . This is the first butterfly park with a museum in Andhra Pradesh. It is hoped by the authorities that this would be developed into Asia's biggest butterfly park by having at least 120 species of butterflies of the Asian region and that it wouldl come up on a 10-acre site and the number of butterflies of these species can run into some thousands. This project is being funded by the Government of India The society / department has been able to identify 60 species of butterflies in the Eastern Ghats and so far secured 20 of them for its butterfly house.

There are some rare species like Acraea Perpsitore, Tatilio Polymnstor, Grachium Dosan and Pathitia Nonmius while a species which has not been identified so far in Asia, can be seen by all at present at this butterfly house. The butterfly house has about 150 ovipositing and nectar hosting plants to help the butterflies feed and increase their numbers. Honey tags are also provided. These essential facilities, now a scarce commodity in nature thanks to great decrease in the number of plants and other factors, are made available in the butterfly house. It is reported that 100 million US dollars worth butterflies are also being smuggled out of the country from Assam and the Himalayan region. The live butterfly is dipped in wax and is used for ornamental purpose.

Butterflies have a life span of one day to 30 days. Once the park has a large number of butterflies, they will be released into the open.

Karanji Lake - Mysore

This lake is located in the city of Mysore in the state of Karnataka, India. The lake is surrounded by a nature park consisting of a butterfly park and a walk-through aviary.

This aviary is the biggest 'walk-through aviary' in India. There is also a museum, the Regional Museum of Natural History which is located on the banks of this lake. The total area of Karanji lake is 90 hectares. While water spread area is about 55 hectares, the foreshore area measures about 35 hectares. Karanji lake is owned by the Mysore Zoo Authority. Mysore Zoo gets a revenue of an average of Rs. 50000 per day from ticket sales to enthusiasts who visit this lake.

Butterfly park - The butterfly park has been created on a small island within the Karanji lake. About 45 species of butterflies have been identified here. With the help of a botanist, appropriate species of host plants and nectar plants essential for the breeding of butterflies were selected and planted within the island. These plants have also been brought from hill stations and other regions like Malnad. Steps have been taken to build a bridge in the lake to the newly created 'butterfly park'. A watch tower was also constructed to view the birds and study their behaviour. A giant fountain which can spew water up to 40 feet has been added as an attraction. A nursery of medicinal plants is also present here.

The aviary constructed on the shore of the lake has a height of 20 m, length of 60 m and width of 40 m making it India's biggest walk-through aviary. The aviary was set up at a cost of Rs 3.8 million. It includes an artificial water fall and two small water bodies. Water from the Karanji lake is pumped inside the aviary in the form of a stream while the used water is discharged into the lake. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person.

The total area of Karanji Lake is 90 hectares. While water spread area is about 55 hectares, the foreshore area measures about 35 hectares. Karanji Lake is surrounded by a nature park consisting of a butterfly park and a walk-through aviary. This aviary is the biggest walk-through aviary in India. There was an option for boating.

Thekkady Wild life Sanctuary, Periyar National Park - Kerala - India

Popularly known as the Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar National Park is a lush manmade forest that offers a natural habitat. Periyar National Park took birth and developed around the Periyar Lake that is also a manmade lake. The Periyar National Park in Kerala, South India is a great place for spotting exotic butterfly species that flit in and out of deep green forest shrubs.

Butterfly of Andaman Islands will follow soon.

I am posting some of the stamps and a FDC on butterfly hereunder.

Details are : Year 1981 - Stamps on FDC and blocks are same.

35P -Stichophthalma Camadeva 50p Cethosia Biblis
100 - Cyrestis Achates 200 Teinopalpus Imperialis

Butterfly - Srilanka

2009-11-27T19:31:00.000+05:30

In continuation of my posting today, i am showing hereunder a beautiful miniature of Sri Lanka

Butterfly - General Information - Srilanka

2009-11-27T18:03:00.000+05:30

27-11-2009 - Friday 5.55 PM-India

Butterfly - some information

Butterflies are the most attractive and beautiful creatures. Among the insect group, they are often regarded as flag bearing species. The butterfly is the one which is researched and studied most by the fellows in the world in different parts as they are very commonly seen and easy to observe. The butterfly density is much higher in the tropicals compared to temperate areas.. Their habitat ranges from arctic to the great deserts of the world. The butterflies are divided in to two super families viz., Papilionoidea constitutes 11,100 species and Hesperioidea constitutes 3,650 species in the world. Ancient people carved images of butterflies into stones, and worshipped as their God messengers. Even today the butterfly is continued to be given a special status. Many species, both common and rare, can be easily and reliably identified in the field. They are also amongst the better-studied groups of organisms with availability of field guides. Butterflies are very colorful and important insect living in our environment. They help in the stability of the natural diversity of the environment. In Zoological terms butterflies belongs to the Phylum Arthropoda and class Insecta

Sri Lanka

The tropical island paradise of Sri Lanka is astonishingly rich in wildlife and contains a wide variety of habitats ranging from highland forests and lush rainforest to arid, scrub-filled plains and an abundance of fresh water lakes. Over a tenth of the land mass is designated as protected areas for wildlife and the principal reserves are among the best in Asia. Although geographically close to India the zoology of the island displays many affinities to Indonesia and there is a marked degree of endemism, particularly in the remaining tracts of lowland forest to the south of the island where many of the birds, plants and insects are unique to Sri Lanka.

Batticola of Srilanka

The Butterfly Peace Garden (BPG) is a non-governmental organization established in the year 1996 at Batticola. Since that time the BPG has provided counseling and support to children traumatized by civil conflict in the region. In late 2004 the BPG also became a centre for helping victims of the Tsunami which devastated the Batticaloa area. The BPG and its staff have been supported local Government as also oversees agencies and other foreign countries. WarChild International and Ashoka International, which named BPG co-founder Paul Hogan a fellow in 2003. Children are brought to the BPG each day from surrounding villages in groups that are mixed with respect to gender and ethnicity (e.g. children from Tamil and Muslim villages).

The glamour set of the insect world, most species of butterflies and dragonflies in Sri Lanka are found in the lower foothills. Some butterflies can be seen all year round while others are seasonal. The two major seasons where butterfly numbers peak, corresponds to the start of the southwest monsoon in March/April and the northeast monsoon in September/October. One of the most spectacular scenes is the seasonal migration of butterflies during March and April, when tradition has it that they fly towards 'Samanala Kande' (Butterfly Peak), the local name for the mountain more famous as 'Sri Pada' or `Adam's Peak'.

Gamboha of Srilanka

The Botanic garden of Gamboha [BGG] are one of the best places to see butterfly fauna and study their life circles. There are about 80 species of Butterflies recorded here with five endemic species. Various kinds of flowering plants and a vast collection of plant diversity are a source of food and food plants of butterflies. On sunny days you will be able to see Sri Lankan most beautiful and the largest butterflies like the Endemic Ceylon Bird wing, Blue Mormon, Common Mormon, Common Rose, Crimson Rose, Mime and Banded Peacocks flying all over the place. In addition, the Botanic Gardens are an ideal place to study about butterfly food plants, their breeding and life cycles.

Roughly 245 species [ may vary ] of butterflies occur in Sri Lanka, of which 23 are endemics [ figure may vary ]. Their habitats range from the hottest areas in the arid zones to the coolest areas in the forested hills. Some butterflies can be seen all year round while others are seasonal. In size, they range from the large, aptly named Bird-wing butterfly to the tiny, just as aptly named, Grass Jewel.

The highest number of species of butterflies occur in the foothills up to 3000 feet elevation. About half a dozen species occur above 4000 feet. Twenty species are strictly confined to the dry zone below 500 feet. There are two major seasons in which the butterfly numbers peak. These correspond to the onset of the south-west monsoon in March-April and the north-east monsoon in September-October.

List of few species which are endemic to Sri Lanka.

Blue Oakleaf Ceylon Rose

Ceylon Birdwing Decorated Ace

Pala Ceylon 6-Lineblue Ceylon Hedge Blue

Jewel Four-ring Ceylon Treebrown

Ceylon Forester Cingalese Bushbrown

Ceylon Palmfly Ormiston’s Oakblue

Clouded Silverline Ceylon Indigo Royal

Woodhouse’s 4-lineblue White-tipped Lineblue

Ceylon Cerulean Rare Ace

Common Bird wing:This is the biggest butterfly in Sri Lanka. This species can be seen in many parts of the island but not in highlands and in northern part of the island.

Blue Mormon: This species can be seen up to 4000 feet from the sea level but very rare in high lands. Very much close to the Common Bird wing and it is the second largest butterfly in Sri Lanka

Ceylon Tree Nymph - This species is treated as an endangered species. Can be seen in the Wet zone of the island. Very much like to the wet environment and flies very slow.

Crimson Rose -This is a very common species. It likes the dry environment.

Banded Peacock -Flies very first the habitat is dry zone and up to 1000 feet of the sea level. It is very bright butterfly with blue and green colors.

Common Mormon -This species is very common across the island. This is a bit larger species.

Clipper: This species is treated as an endangered in Sri Lanka. Lives up to 3000 feet sea level. It is large and very attractive species

Common Blue bottle - This is a common species which is very attractive and with bright blue color. Flies very fast and love to live in wet places. The habitat of this species is dry zone and also in the high lands.

The image will be posted shortly as i could not link it to the post.

butterfly of malaysia

2009-11-22T09:25:00.000+05:30

22-11-2009 - Sunday 0930 AM

Malaysia

Penang :

The Penang Butterfly Farm, reputedly the world's first tropical live butterfly sanctuary is just 15 minutes away from the Batu Ferringhi tourist belt. Established in 1986, the farm features some 4000 live butterflies of 150 different species, a nature park with small reptiles in their natural habitats as well as the Museum of Asian Artefacts. Expansion plans are underway to include a night zoo, which will feature nocturnal creatures and tropical insects. The farm is a not-to-be-missed for many and it attracts some 250 to 300 visitors daily.

At the Butterfly Farm in Penang you'll be surrounded by a myriad of fluttering butterflies within a seemingly natural setting. Visit the Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang, Penang, a sanctuary for over 120 species of rare and exotic tropical butterflies. The farm is complete with a hatchery and a "Preserved Butterflies of the World" museum. The butterfly farm covers an area of .8 hectares and has over 3,000 butterflies.

We can wander between carnivorous plants [which eat flesh] and pools with giant koi. In the nursery, newly emerged butterflies dry their wings. Overcome your fear of creepy crawlies at an educational talk by letting a giant millipede march across your hands. We may wear bright colors to encourage the butterflies to land on you. Volunteer opportunities are available. The Penang Farm is more than just a tourist attraction. It is set up as a 'live museum' to educate the public as well as a research centre to develop breeding methods. The Farm's founder David Goh explains the philosophy behind its operation

The main attraction of the Butterfly Farm is undoubtedly the free flying papilions in the enormous enclosure. The visitor can inspect the butterflies at close quarters as they flit around their favorite nectar plants. The exhibition of selected insects and reptiles are also crowd drawers. The visitor, having traversed this complex of displays ends up in a souvenir shop selling butterfly-related paraphernalia.

Today, the Penang Butterfly Farm is the first tropical butterfly farm ever set up in the tropical world, with an average flying population of 4000 Malaysian butterflies of 120 different species, including the rare Indian Leafl (Kallima paralekta) and the endangered Yellow Bird wing (Troides helena). Probably the most famous of Malaysian butterflies is the Rajah Brooke's Bird wing of the Papilionidae family. First discovered in Borneo in 1855 by A. R. Wallace, it was named after the first British Rajah of Sarawak.

Malay Peninsular has over 1000 recorded butterfly species, among the highest of any country in the world in relation to small land mass. David Goh, the founder of the Penang Butterfly Farm was inspired and encouraged by Mr. Clive Farrell, owner of the Stratford Butterfly Farm at Stratford-on-Avon (birth-place of William Shakespeare) in England, to start a tropical butterfly farm in Malaysia.

The Penang Butterfly Farm is now a household name in Penang and a "must-see" for visitors since it opened in 1986. The farm located right at the end of the tourist hotel strip at Batu Ferringhi stands on a 0.8 hector site in Teluk Bahang, about 17km from George town. It has become one of the most popular stops on Penang's round island tour. The success of the Butterfly Farm as a tourist attraction has even inspired a series of similar commercial operations in Malacca, Cameron highlands and Singapore.

Malaaca

Butterfly Farm, Malacca is worth your visit. It is a unique Tourist Attraction in Malacca and if you are a first time visitor then you must visit this place. It is located at Ayer Keroh and can be easily accessed from your accommodations in Malacca. Butterfly Farm, Malacca is perfect to witness the exotic tropical butterflies. If you are interested in checking out these colorful species then you must visit Butterfly Farm in Malacca.

There are 200 kinds of tropical butterflies at this park. You can see butterflies like Raja Brooke and Birdwing. It will be a totally different experience to explore the fabulous farm. The lush tropical rain forest has several trees, flowers and ponds. Such environment is perfect for butterflies to thrive. A visit to Butterfly Farm, Malacca will make you feel as if you are in a natural paradise. It is a visual treat to watch hundreds of butterflies fly around and sitting on the flowers. Butterfly gardening is quite common in the Butterfly Farm, Malacca. Such Sightseeing in Malacca will make your trip to this Malaysian country more interesting.

Butterfly Farm, Malacca also houses an extensive 400 kinds of rare insects. There is an in-house laboratory where researches on the butterflies are carried on. Butterfly Farm in Malacca is one of its own kind in entire Southeast Asia and the second best in the world. it is also a reptile park which houses several kinds of snakes and miniature houses. Apart being a well known Sightseeing in Malacca this place is also apt for school excursions. A visit to this park will be a learning experience for both the adults and children.

Apart from a museum there is also a souvenir shop within the premises of Butterfly Farm, Malacca. If you feel tired while exploring the butterfly garden, there is a café where you can chill out. Butterfly Farm, Malacca is worth your visit.

Camaroon highlands of Malaysia

Cameron Highlands is one of the few places in Malaysia, where insects are collected regularly and exported. There are some insect dealers in Tanah Rata and as well in Tapah. Tanah Rata is a nice small town in the middle of the Highlands and has an interesting feature like butterfly farm It is not as spectacular and big as the Penang butterfly farm; but it has many birdwings flying around, the most amazing of which is Trogonoptera brookiana albescens. This species was named after the first white Rajah of Malaysia, named James Brooke. It is a common saying that the butterflies contain the soul of this white Rajah. The farm also exhibits some other insect species, such as Walking leaves (Phyllium bioculatum), Stick insects and Dead Leave (Deroplatys spp.) and Orchid Mantis (Hymenopus coronatus). All in all, it is worth a visit, especially as the entrance fee is quite cheap.

In Malaysia within the lowland dipetercarp and hill forests dwell more than 1,032 species of butterflies, which present unlimited opportunities for the delightful hobby of butterfly watching. The butterfly represents tranquility, grace and freedom. Unfortunately, they are extremely sensitive to the environment and have an extremely short life span -- only an average of two weeks. Catching sight of these living works of art is a wonderful experience that should be cherished.

Malaysian butterflies can be roughly divided into highland and lowland species though some can be found at all elevations. The Clipper (Parthenos Sylvia), for example, is a lowland species that is frequently found at the edge of the rainforest and scrub areas. On the other hand, the Malay Lacewing (Cerhosia Hypsea) lives on both lowland and hilly areas. The Raja Brooke Birdwing is the most famous of Malaysian butterflies. It was discovered in 1885 by A.R. Wallace and named after the first Rajah of Sarawak.

The amateur who is taking the plunge in butterfly watching for the first time should first note the behaviour of tropical butterflies. Large numbers of butterflies are seasonal, often coming with moderately wet weather after a dry spell and an abundance of flowers and new leaves. Generally, they prefer a cool, moist and leafy habitat. Butterfly hotspots are flowers, hilltops, mud puddles and caterpillar food plants. Flowers often attract butterflies because of the nectar they produce. Sometimes a plant or tree that is in full bloom will have swarms of butterflies feeding on its nectar. Many species are also attracted to rotting fruits and animal urine. Certain areas attract certain species. For example, the majestic Raja Brooke Birdwing is often hovering near river banks, while the Blue Crow and Banded Yeoman are fond of clearings and the forest edge. Though many butterflies start searching for food early in the morning, they are most active between 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is recommended that dull coloured clothes be worn, and that you arm yourself with a pair of binoculars.

Three popular tourist spots where one can observe highland butterflies are Fraser's Hill, Cameron Highlands and Bukit Larut in Perak. Though Fraser's Hill (1,524m) and Cameron Highlands (1,462m to 1,755 m) are in Pahang, they are both accessible from Kuala Lumpur. Bukit Larut (1,054m) is only 7 km from Taiping in Perak, and forms part of the Bukit Larut Forest Reserve. Among the recommended areas in the lowlands for butterfly watching are Pantai Aceh Forest Reserve on Penang Island; Paya Indah Wetlands Sanctuary in Putrajaya; Templer's Park and Kanching Forest Reserve in Kuala Lumpur and Air Keroh Forest Reserve on the northern fringe of Melaka town. All these areas can be visited on a day trip.

At Fraser's Hill, the WWF-sponsored Nature Education Centre in the sports complex dispenses maps showing the nature trails around its seven hillocks. For butterfly watching, the Mager Trail is the most rewarding, and the area around the Jeriau Waterfalls also teems with colourful flitting creatures. Choose those trails that meander past waterfalls and alongside streams. The Parit Fall and Robinson Waterfalls are also hot spots for butterflies. Bukit Larut is located in the wettest region in the country, with most of the forest trails near its summit.

Visitors who do not wish to trek in the jungle can visit one of the five butterfly farms in the country: namely, Penang Butterfly Farm, Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm, Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm, Melaka Butterfly Park and Poring Butterfly Farm in Sabah

The Insect Museum is packed with more than 2,000 specimens, including 600 species of butterflies and moths 800 species of beetles and other creepy crawlies.

The Poring Butterfly Farm is located in the settlement of Poring, 40km southwest of Kinabalu Park headquarters. The farm is divided into four areas; namely; netted enclosure, exhibition gallery, breeding room and food plant nursery. The netted enclosure is 25 metre square and six metres in height, and houses more than 500 butterflies of various species. In the exhibition gallery, preserved specimens and photographs are displayed. Information panels present interesting facts n the butterfly as such distribution and behavioral characteristics such as mimicry and colouration.

The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm is modelled after the one in Penang, and is nestled within the lush Lake Gardens. Cameron Highlands's butterfly farm is perched atop a plateau, about 5km from Kea Farm in Brinchang. Melaka Butterlfy Park is located in Ayer Keroh, and also includes a marine centre. . There is also a small butterfly park within the sprawling grounds of the Jubli Perak Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Agricultural Park, which is located 5km from Bandar Indera Mahkota near Kuantan.

Facing buying a preserved Raja Brooke Birdwing or a Banded Yeoman mounted in a decorative glass case as a souvenir? Pop over to Papillion in Batu Caves Light Industrial Estate in Batu Caves, just 10km north of Kuala Lumpur. This is probably the only company in the country that manufactures all sorts of collectibles using the butterfly. There are plastic paper weights, pen holders and key chains with preserved butterflies embedded within them.

Hereunder I post a beautiful FDC showing pictures of 4 butterflies of Malaysia along with brochure brought out by POS, MASs

butterfly of tuvalu - miniature

2009-11-14T15:30:00.000+05:30

3-25 PM – 14th November, 2009

Some more stamps of Tuvalu – miniature sheets

1993 – 6th Asian International Philatelic Exhibition

1993 – Bangkok World Philatelic Exhibition – Paradisea Stamdinger

Taipei International Invitation exhibition – Geoffroyl Godart

Butterfly - General Information

2009-11-07T17:36:00.003+05:30

Butterfly - general

In this world there are lot of insects, animals and other habitats. Of all these, there is a special place for butterfly. This fluttering species always attracts the people and make them happy.

There is a secret of this flutter by species. All these days one may be knowing that the butterfly does not have ears and feel only through the nostrills. A research was conducted by Bristol University. The researchers who attended the research discovered that the blue marbo butterfly has ears and that the ears are located on their body just nearby the wings. It is found to be just like a small dot projected upward and like a very small tube. The colour of this part is mostly of faded yellow. This butterfly can hear sound between 1000 and 5000 Hrts [human beings it is 20 to 20000].

One of the researcher also informed that upto 1912, it was believed that the butterfly does not hear the sound. Following this, it was also found that some species of butterfly feels the sound waves. Now that we have discovered that Blue marbo species has ears.

[translated from a local language paper]
7-11-2009 1700 hours.

Butterfly - Nicaragua

2009-11-06T11:49:00.000+05:30

Nicaragua

Nicaragua is the largest country of Central America. It borders Costa Rica and Honduras. Managua is the capital of this latin country.Nicaragua has some spectacular nature. There is a wide variety of landscapes and habitats that allow for many different types of vegetation and animal species to thrive. For the nature lovers, Nicaragua has a lot to offer. Rainforest is still present in Nicaragua. Although shrinking, the rainforest has been left relatively untouched.

In Nicaragua it is estimated that there are roughly 600 species of butterfly. There is a reserve area for butterfly with a calm and serene environment enclosing the area. It is just four kilometers from Granada. In the reserve farm we can learn more about species while watching the colourful species. The garden has many different species. We can easily see the morpho peleides-the big blue, orange, yellow fauna. We can see them while strolling through the farm even from a little distance.

A guide can also be hired who can tell us more facts about these beautiful creatures. The reserve authority chose with much care, the plants for the peaceful habitation of the butterfly and to increase/enrich the environment itself, thereby give out a colorful and friendly atmosphere to the walkers-by

There is a cost for visiting the reserve form which we can get known at that area. The park is open to public from 0800 to 0400 pm upto Saturday.

Hereunder I post a beautiful sheet let of butterfly.

1. Sheet - four rows left to right all at the rate 1.50 == 1994 Hong Kong

Callicore Patelia   Chlosyne Narva      Anteos Maerula     Marpesia petreus
pierella helvitia      kurytides epidaus    epidanus heliconios   doris symrna blomfidio
eveides lybia olympia     adelpha heraclea Heliconious   hecale zuleika    parides montesuma
morpha polyphemus    eresia alsina prepona     omphale octavia   murpho granadensis

2. Registered Post cover real posted to me [ stamps not full set]

Three stamps of 9.00 each left to right

Caligo atreus dionysos    Morph amaronte Eryphanis   Polyxera locomedon

3. Set of four used stamps : - two rows - left to right

050 - Dynamina Myrrhina          120 - Eunica alcmena
150 - Callizona acesta               300 - Parides Iphidancas

Butterfly some facts

2009-11-05T10:36:00.000+05:30

1. Buttterfly lives for a short span for about two weeks.
2. The eggs of the insect only 2% of the eggs attain maturity naturally.
3. The herbicide and insecticide tremendously damage this
4. The colours of the wings are caused by scales which reflect and refract light
5. Butterfly has cold blood and thus needs sun light to get warm to remain active
6. The great threat is loss of habitat and not the collection of species.
7. Brush foot butterfly ie., Nymphalidae appears to have only 4 legs since last two
legs very small and near the head.
8. Some species of the creature produce polarised light on the wings.
9. The blue and green colour are caused by defraction rather than pigments in the
wings. Other colours are caused by pigments only.

australia - butterfly

2009-10-30T09:39:00.000+05:30

yesterday i posted information on stamps of australia and about australia butterfly farm. the post cards which i reportedly included in the post, are not picturised. sorry. it will be posted later. the stamps shown are in full. for information of all viewers. thanks.

butterfly - australia information

2009-10-29T21:44:00.000+05:30

0945 PM on 29-10-2009

Australia Butterfly - information.

A butterfly farm has been in existence in Australia since 1987 [Kuranda village]. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is a twenty year old. It is the large captivating enclosure in the country for the butterfly. Since its opening, million of people have visited there and enjoyed the flutterby creatures. This is the biggest in the southern hemisphere.

The aviary [cage like] at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been designed to recreate the butterfly's natural tropical habitat. As we go through along the path ways which go through the aviary take time to appreciate the vast variety of Lepidoptera (species of butterflies and moths).

The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is also home to the world’s largest moth – the Hercules Moth. The Hercules Moth is endemic to Tropical North Queensland Australia and is a majestic creature of the jungle that really has to be seen to be believed! The tour guides are more informative to the visiting guests. We will be told about the unique and less known butterfly such as the Red lacewing, Glasswing or Orange Cruiser. There is a museum in the sanctuary where many species around the world are on display. Australian Birdwing, which is the largest butterfly in Australia.

Being located just 27 Km west of Cairns, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is readily accessible for the people. Cairns is also full of rainforests that can provide an ideal environment for the butterflies. The sanctuary was designed to become self-sustainable for the butterflies, so only plants where caterpillars can feed and lay their eggs are abundant within the sanctuary's premises. Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is situated in the centre of Kuranda Village and is listed by the Guinness Book of Records as Australia’s largest butterfly flight aviary and exhibit. Conceived, designed and built by Paul and Susan Wright in 1987, the sanctuary rears only native butterflies to Australia which are bred on the premises. Today, however, it holds the record as the biggest aviary in the southern hemisphere. Since butterflies are rainforest species, the aviary's landscape was created to imitate the rainforest environment, with special attention given for the needs of the Ulyses butterfly. It is complete with a running stream, a waterfall and a rainforest under-storey and canopy. As such, the aviary is not only a paradise for butterflies, but is also a wonderful place for people to experience. The Sanctuary is open from 9:45 to 4:00 pm daily except during Christmas Day. Please do visit there when you are on tour to Australia.

Hereunder, I post some stamps of australia alongside some post cards having butterfly stamps. The stamps however may not be full.

1981

4C = Euschemon Rafflesia = Hesperiidae - Regnet skipper
10C = Troides euphorion = Papilonidae - Cairns Birdwing
20C = Graphium Macleayanus Papilonaedae =Macleay's Swallowtail
27C = Papilio Ulysses = Papilionidae Ulysses = Ulysses
30 C = Pseudalmenus Chlorinda Lycaenidae = Chlorind Hairstreak
35 C = Tirumala Hamala = Nymphalidae = Blue Tiger
45 C = Cressida Cressida Papilionidae = Big Greasy
60 C = Dilias Agauippe = Pieridae = Wood White
80C = Ogyris Amaryllis Lycaenidae = Amaryllis Azure
$1 = Tisiphone abeona Nymphalidae = Sword Grass Brown

1998
Nymphalidae - Cethosia Cydippe - Red lacewing 45C
Licaenidae - Arhopala Centaurus - Dull Oakblue - 45C
Nymphalidae - Junonia Villida - Meadow Argus - 45C
Papilionidae - Papilio Ulysses = Ulysses - 50C
Hesperiidae - Chaetocnemebeala - common Red Eye 45 C

Information on butterfly :::

There are migration records for about 30 species of Australian butterflies, although only 10 do so regularly. Brown awls, a type of skipper, migrate in their thousands, spending the winter in north-east Queensland and moving south in summer. The next generation makes the return trip north in late summer. During winter, a number of Wet Tropics butterflies move to the coast, and to sheltered areas along creeks, where they congregate in clusters of hundreds or even thousands for three months or more. Blue tigers and common Australian crows (which are related to the wanderers/monarchs) are the most noticeable but they may be joined by black and white tigers and eastern brown crows. They hang from twigs waiting for temperatures to rise and new leaves to appear on larval food plants. Yellow and lemon migrants, as their name suggests, also move in large numbers.

Made up of many lenses, an adult butterfly's eyes are a vast improvement on those it possessed as a caterpillar and are particularly sensitive to movement and colour. Experiments with paper flowers have shown that certain butterfly species prefer blue to purple and yellow to red, ignoring green until they were ready to lay eggs. At least some species are able to see ultraviolet; when viewed in this light, the wings of some male white butterflies, can be seen to have iridescent patches which are invisible to us but presumably play an important part

butterfly information and of tuvalu

2009-10-25T20:56:00.001+05:30

25 Oct 2009 – 0900 pm

Butterfly - some more information:

1. Both butterfly and moth belong to same insect family Lepidoptera. But butterfly differ from moth. Butterfly is active during entire day time. Moth is active generally only in night. The butterfly is brightly coloured mostly unlike the moth. But some moth species are reportedly bright in colours. The moth when rests, spreads the wings. But butterfly will hold it vertically pointing to the roof or sky, or horizondally on walls.

2. It is reported that, of the 15 million insects 200, 000 belong to species of lepidoptera which refers to both moth and butterfly.

3. The butterfly has its habitat generally in tropical area. South America is the known continent which is rich in fauna.

Butterfly of Tuvalu :

Tuvalu is a country geographically 26 sq.kms area and the fourth independent small state after Vatican, Manoco, Nauru. It lies between Hawaii and Australia in the pacifics Capital Funafuti is the largest coral reef among the other eight reefs of the country. The atolls of the country have lagoons open to the ocean. The population of the country is estimated roughly 11000 now. Most of them live in the capital. This is a tropical country at about 86 F / 30C.

There are twenty two known species of the butterfly in the country including moths.

Some of the stamps of tuvalu on butterfly are posted below with descriptions. The stamps posted may not be full.

Description   ==     5c     Marpesia Petreus, Pseudolycaena
                               15c   Ccharaxes jasius, Junonia coenia
                               50c   Palaeochrysophanus hippothoe, Stiocopthalma Camadeva
                               75c   Phoebis avellaneda, Aapatura iris

butterfly from venda - information and pictures on stamps

2009-10-19T07:26:00.000+05:30

19-10-2009 0700 AM
Butterfly from Venda
The thought of establishment of butterfly park was sparked out in United Kingdom first and popularly spread over the word.
In Venda, three persons who took initiative in this venture first visited some countries in the europe and asia and got ideas of building up and establishing a park in the Venda thus providing a good and happy fascinating experience to those people.

Venda is a south africa state in the african continent. The country has many species of butterflies to follow and look at, admire. We can experience the magic of butterfly word located near the cape Winlands of Paarl. One will definitely imagine strolling through a beautiful landscapped garden [indoor] with beautiful, bright colour butterfly species, filting from one flower to the other. It is a tranquiling atmosphere.
This butterfly word is in the Cape winelands of southern africa and it is a largest park of the South Africa. This is founded in 1996. Many visitors make a trip over there to view those fascinating little insects or creatures.
The indoor park is provided with well designed exotic plants, water facility etc., for the butterfly. The administrators have also provided guides for the visitors. It is open from 0900 to 0500 in the evening in summer time and upto 0400 PM in winter. visit and enjoy the nature brought under one roof.

Hereunder a set of four stamps of Venda posted with the FDC.
Details of stamps and FDC :

Stamps:
21c - Pseudacraea biosduvalitrimenii                       35c - papilio mireus lyaeus
40c - charaxes jasius sacturnus                                 50c - aeropetes tulbaghia

Venda post mark sibasa - 13-11-80

Stamps :
5c   precis tugela                                  10c   charaxes bohimani
15c catacroptera cloanthe                     20c papilio dardamnus

butterfly - some information - vietnam butter fly pictures

2009-10-10T08:29:00.000+05:30

9-10-2009 0800 AM
Some information on butterfly.

Butterfly is found all over the world. But it lives in great numbers in tropicalr egions. The oriental region of Asia has many species. The butterfly is one of the more mobile group of faunas which moves from one place to other at its will.
Swallowtail butterfly is a large species, colourful and attractive from the family papilionida. There are about 500 species, majority are in tropical. The members of this family are found in all continents except the icy antartica. This family also includes largest butterfly in the word, the birdwing butterfly of Australia. It is being the target of the butterfly collectors previously. The largest one of this family that is Birdwing which is being sought after and now it is being cultured in farms for collectors purpose. This butterfly is brought under three sub groups like Baroninae, parnasinae, papilioninae. The 2nd and 3rd are further parted into tribes.
Monarch butterfly wing span ranges between 3 1/2 and 4 inches.
The male monarch has black patch. The male is slightly larger. The monarchs are noted for their lengthy annual migration. This is the only species that migrate like birds. [more than 3000 KM] at a speed between 8 and 15 km p.h.
The monarchs are found in a wide range of habitats such as fields, meadows, urban and suburban parks, gardens, road sides.
In Vietnam there are 350 species of butterfly found. But this fauna is relatively lesser known. Here under, i am posting some of the beautiful butterflies that are picture by Vietnam Post in their stamps. They may not be complete set. But it is posted for information of viewers. Also a postally used cover is also posted.
Viewers are requested to post their comments and they wish, they can help me in some way or the other.

butterfly - japan

2009-09-30T20:41:00.000+05:30

30-9-2009 – 2000 hours - Japanese butterflies.

I welcome all to view my blog and record their findings and comments and also suggestions to improve this blog further, with ways. I am sure the viewers havej interest in the butterflies and nature.

There are about 250 species (8 families) of butterflies in Japan. They include subtropical butterflies and subarctic ones in addition to the temperate zone ones because Japan is located between 20 degrees and 46 degrees north latitude. Japan comprises four major islands whose names are Kyushu, Shikoku, Honshu, and Hokkaido from south to north in order, and many small islands.

The climate in Japan varies according to the seasons and the islands. About seventy three percent of the land area is mountainous. Therefore, there are various species of butterflies for the narrow nation's land.

The categories. Native / immigrant / deliberate / uncertain / doubtful species:

Here under some of the butterfly stamps brought out Japan are exhibited.

Miniature :

Left to right : Parnassus everymanni 60 Anthocans Cardamines 40

Parantica sita 60 Sasakia charaonda 40

Right of miniature : same stamps as above without the perforation on the edge

Butterfly - Great Britain

2009-09-25T13:57:00.001+05:30

Butterfly - some more information

Some of us may like to think that male monarchs are beautiful to look at. But all the butter fly species in the world are really beautiful to look at. The monarch butterflies are the only species or insect that migrate for more than 2000 miles to go out of the cold weather and to hibernate in warm climatic condition so that they can start a new generation when the spring time falls in.

When we think of the butterfly, the first thing that comes to our mind is probably the colourful flutter of wings. But there is much more than that which first meets our eyes. Given under are some of the fascinating things about butterflies.

The wings of the butterflies are transparent. Contrary to popular belief, the wings of the butterfly can be held gently without harming them. Some of the butterflies have very fragile wings which get damaged. Butterfly belongs to order leiidoptera which means scale wing.

The iridescent scales [like rainbow], overlaps like shingles on a roof that give the colours for the wings. Their taste sensors are located in their feet. They taste their food by simply standing on it. The butterflies have six legs and feet. In monarch species, the front pair of legs remains tucked up under their body most of the time and we may feel difficulty in seeing them. The butterfly has a long straw like structure which is called proboscis which they use to drink the nectar and juices. The proboscis will remain coiled like a garden hose, when not required. The butterfly hatches eggs in the nest [like cocoon] built by moths. The veins of the Monarch butterfly's wings give them structure and support, just as the human being gets structure through their bones.

The monarch butterfly is found to be poisonous. But they won't harm humans; but the chemicals from the milkweed plant that they eat when they are in the larvae stage builds up inside them and gives them a poisonous defense against predators like frogs, birds, lizards and mice. Male monarch butterfly has black spots on each of the hind wings over a vein. The female ones does not have this.

Will continue.

Hereunder i am posting some of the beautiful butter fly stamps that have been brought out by the Great Britain along with the FDC, picture post cards [ the cancellation side is shown separately hereunder ]

Details:
14p - Small Tortoise Shell 18p - Large Blue
22p - Peacock 25p - Chequered Skipper

Maxi Picture cards stamped on 13 May 81
FDC stamped on 13 May 1981 [first day of issue stamping]
All stamp cancellations have butterfly outlines.

fiji butterfly

2009-09-22T11:03:00.000+05:30

Butterflies of the Fiji Islands

Butterflies are among nature's most beautiful gifts to mankind. They have been admired and studied for centuries. Even the most uninterested observer of the natural world can identify a butterfly and will, as likely as not, pause to watch a nearby colourful butterfly. Currently, 46 native and one introduced species of butterfly are known from Fiji, but there are certainly more species to be discovered and the distribution of our butterflies is poorly known. Fiji's butterflies belong to five families and five of the species are considered as endemic species and so found only in Fiji. Butterflies are not an important component of Fijian natural history lore, butterflies and moths are collectively called bebe (pronounced mbembe). I am posting some of them along with FDC hereunder

Details :

20c - Polyura caphontis Tailed Emperor

Polyura caphonitis is one of Fiji's endemic butterflies and is currently recorded only from Viti Levu and as such is a single-island endemic, however, there are observational records of this species from Taveuni also. Its hindwing has small 'tails' though these are not conspicuous in the field. A medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 7 cm.

$1.10 - Hypolimnas octocuta

This medium-sized butterfly (8 cm wingspan) is a rare Fijian species. The peach-coloured submargin of the hindwing with its white dots encircled black are this butterflies distinguishing feature. The current known distribution of H.octocula is restricted to three islands in the northern Lau Group, Kadavu and Ovalau. It is not endemic as it is also recorded from Vanuatu. New Caledonia and Micronesia.

$1.20 - Doleschallia bisaltide Leafwing

This distinctive medium-sized butterfly (wingspan of 7 cm) has wings shaped so that the resting butterfly (when its wings are closed over its back) resembles an old dried up leaf The hind wings bear a small tail. However, when it flies, a rich orange upper surface is revealed.

$2 - Danaus hamata Blue Tiger

A distinctly black and white butterfly when seen in the field but the bluish tinge is visible in the hand. A medium-sized, strong flying butterfly with a wingspan of 7 cm, the Blue Tiger is closely related to the Monarch butterfly whose annual migrations in many parts of the world are well-known. In Australia, the Blue Tiger has also been recorded undergoing seasonal movements but these do not appear to be well entrained migrations. Widespread on the larger islands in Fiji, the Blue Tiger is another species which extends from south-east Asia, Papua New Guinea and across the Pacific to Tonga.

Fist Day Cover - Hypolimnas bolina Blue Moon (Male)

The Blue Moon is probably Fiji's best known butterfly. It is large with a wingspan up to 10 cm, common and has a reasonably confiding nature. Blue Moons are commonly found in suburban gardens. Males and females differ considerably with the wings of females being duller and lacking the spots. Blue Moons are widespread being found all over Fiji and worldwide range from the Indian sub-continent, through south-east Asia. Papua New Guinea. Australia and right across the Pacific to Pitcairn Island. Recently, scientists studying this species in Samoa believe they have seen one of the fastest aeoes of butterfly.

-- I am thankful to the author and web.

special date

2009-09-20T20:22:00.000+05:30

Dear friends, this month September, 2009, we have seen 09-09-09 which is a very special date. have anybody noticed that today is also a very special date that is 20-09-2009 that is 20092009. has any body got a cancellation of this date ? Happy Ramzan to all my viewers.

Mexico butterfly

2009-09-19T21:46:00.004+05:30

Each winter more than 150 million monarch butterflies (see below) migrate from the northeastern US and Canada to the Oyamel fir forests in the lush mountains of Michoacán in order to reproduce. It's an amazing sight any time, but especially in January and February when numbers peak: whole trees are smothered in monarchs, branches sagging under the weight. In the cool of the morning, they dry their wings, turning the entire landscape a rich, velvety orange, while later in the day they take to the air, millions of fluttering butterflies making more noise than you'd ever think possible. As the afternoon humidity forces them to the ground, they form a thick carpet of blazing colour.

The best place to see them is in the Sanctuario de Mariposa El Rosario (middle weekend in Nov to third weekend in March daily 8am–5pm; M$35; www.turismomichoacan.gob.mx), just outside the village of El Rosario, about 120km east of Morelia. It is best to go early in the morning (and preferably on weekdays, to avoid the crowds), when the butterflies are just waking up and before they fly off into the surrounding woodlands. Guides, whose services are included in the entry fee, show you around the sanctuary and give a short explanation of the butterflies' lifecycle and breeding habits. For a couple of weeks on either side of the main season, those same guides run the place unofficially, still charging the entry price and offering their services for a tip. There are fewer butterflies but it is still worth the journey anytime from early November to early April. The walk to the best of the monarch-laden trees is about 2km, mostly uphill at an altitude of almost 3000 metres: take it easy if you're not acclimatized.

Butterfly

2009-09-19T17:56:00.001+05:30

In the butterfly segment, following three MSs are put up. Those stamps are brought out by Angola under title BORBOLETAS. All the 18 stamps in the three MSs are equal denominations of 120.000.00 Angola currn.
Details of those stamps are :

Left to right rows 1/2 - first row two MSs
and below that 1 MS - each MS 6 stamps

left first MS:
Metamarpha stalinues, popilio glauces, Dandaus Plexippus
Catonephele numili, plebejas Argus, hypolimnas bolina

I row - Right MS
Dynastor napolean, Zeaxidia amethystus,
Battus Philenun, phoebis philea,
Danaus cheysippus, glancopsyche alexis

MS in the bottom
Tenica tenpanden, bematistes oganice, hebomoia glancippe, colius eurytheme
peneute leucatosime, excaenawdispan.

Butter fly

2009-09-18T12:10:00.007+05:30

Everybody knows watching a flying or flutter butterfly is a joy. In many countries reserved forest or parks are formed to group up the species to give them a peaceful environment to live and nursing their families. The famous such park is in Mexico where lakhs of such species congregate and live and travel from one area to other. Such a sight is always a happy moment for the watchers and researchers. Even in the roads nearby the parks, road sign is put up like "butter fly crossing - be careful' so that the travellers may not hit the flying species. Almost all the postal organisations in the globe issued single and set of stamps depicting common and endangered species. So also India Post

State of Bahrain

Details - miniature containing 8 stamps
50 FILS each
pictures : L-R - first/second rows

Lepidochrysops Arabicus, Ypthima Bolamica
Eurema Brigitta, Precis Limnoria, Aglais Urticae,
Colotis Protomedia, Salamis Anacardil, Byblia Ilithiya

Libya - No details - Arabi - Viewers may
kindly help me details of the below viewed

butter flies

2009-09-14T12:09:00.000+05:30

hello