Australian Painted Lady - Vanessa kershawi

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Australian Painted Lady - Vanessa kershawi

[Public Domain] 5 Jul 2005 Dylan O'Donnell
CATEGORY : Species
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The Australian Painted Lady is a common species of Australian butterfly that has responded well to settlement in this country. Particularly because of the introduction of Scotch Thistle and Lavander, both of which are used by the butterfly larvae for food. Adults migrate from coastal NSW inland, some such as this one pictured, making the journey up to 600kms away. During migration they maintain a rapid direct flight some 2 meters from the ground, otherwise stopping frequently to bask its wings in the sunlight.

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