The Great Eggfly Butterfly

One of the most visually stunning butterflies found flitting through the sunny gardens and open spaces of Ubud is the Great Eggfly (Hypolimnas bolina), sometimes called the Blue Moon butterfly. This species displays remarkable "sexual dimorphism," where males and females look dramatically different.

The male Great Eggfly is a striking velvety black with three large, prominent white spots on each wing. In the sunlight, these spots flash with an incredible, iridescent deep blue or purple. The female, however, is a master of disguise. She is often larger, varies in appearance, and frequently mimics the patterns of toxic Euploea (Crow) butterflies – typically appearing brownish-black with white markings – to deter predators.

This adaptable butterfly thrives in varied habitats, including forest edges and gardens. Its caterpillars feed on a range of common plants, including species from the Acanthaceae family (like Asystasia), often found growing naturally around our jungle resort. Observing the dazzling flash of a male Great Eggfly or the subtle mimicry of a female is one of the many small wonders awaiting discovery in the vibrant ecosystem surrounding Sanggraloka Ubud.