Common Baron Butterfly (Pupa)

Widely distributed in South and Southeast Asia; found in deciduous forests, orchards (especially mango), and suburban gardens.

Larvae feed on leaves of Mango and Cashew trees. Adults feed on rotting fruit and fermented tree sap.

The pupa stage is a non-moving transitional phase where the caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis. The iridescent gold spots are thought to act as camouflage by reflecting light to mimic dew or sunlight filtering through leaves.

Harmless to humans; beneficial to the ecosystem as pollinators and as a food source for birds and spiders. Can be a minor agricultural pest on mango trees in large numbers.