Caper White Butterfly Migration 2016

8 November 2016

There has been "Light snow" (aka Butterfly Blizzard) in the Toowoomba region the last few days, with the influx of thousands of beautiful Caper White Butterflies (Belenois java) on their once in 6 year migration from Western Qld. These native butterflies only migrate when the weather is warm and suitable for breeding. They move east in search of food and to breed, and will then lay their eggs on the native Wild Caper tree or Mock Orange shrub. It is quite a spectacular sight to witness.

I have been noticing them locally for six days, and thought it was time I attempted a few photos of this phenomenon, as the migration usually only lasts around one week.

J.G.

Caper White Butterflies (Belenois java) during migration at Jarowair 8/11/16

Female Caper White Butterfly(Belenois java) during migration at Jarowair 8/11/16

Caper White Butterflies (Belenois java) during migration at Jarowair 8/11/16

Caper White Butterflies (Belenois java) during migration at Jarowair 8/11/16