Why is Madagascar special for butterflies?

Madagascar separated from the mainland about 88 million years ago. Over that time the fauna evolved in isolation, producing a high level of endemism: about 80% of day-flying butterfly species occur only on the island.

What is Madagascar's most beautiful butterfly?

Chrysiridia rhipheus, the Madagascar sunset moth, is one of the world's most beautiful butterflies. Its wings shimmer in every color of the rainbow. Despite the name "moth," it is a day-flying butterfly of the family Uraniidae.

When is the best time to visit Madagascar for butterflies?

The best time is October–December, at the start of the rainy season. The humid east coast is species-rich throughout the year.

Butterfly Atlas

Butterflies of Madagascar

Madagascar is an island of endemics with a unique butterfly fauna. About 300 day-flying species, most found nowhere else in the world.

Butterflies of Madagascar: overview

Madagascar is the world's fourth-largest island and one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. The island separated from the African continent about 88 million years ago, leading to a unique fauna with exceptionally high endemism. Of roughly 300 day-flying butterfly species, about 80% are island endemics.

Chrysiridia — jewel of the island

Chrysiridia rhipheus — the Madagascar sunset moth — has no equal in the world for beauty. Wings up to 12 cm across are patterned in iridescent orange, green, and blue that shift with every movement. Despite the name "moth," it is a day-flying butterfly of the family Uraniidae. The species occurs only on Madagascar's east coast.

Swallowtails of Madagascar

Several swallowtail species are endemic to the island: Papilio mangoura, Papilio grosesmithi — large, striking species of tropical forest. They are tied to primary humid forests of the east coast, which continue to disappear through logging.

Diversity zones

Eastern humid forests: greatest diversity, including most endemics
Central highlands: temperate species, several high-mountain endemics
Western dry forests: specialized drought-tolerant species

African countries

Kenya South Africa Madagascar Tanzania Morocco

Other regions

Russia Europe Asia Africa North America South America Australia and Oceania