The dead leaf butterfly (Kallima inachus) is a perfect example of camouflage. Its wings, when closed, resemble a dry leaf with dark veins. An excellent flier, it can fly high and fast with wings that can withstand rain and moisture in dense forests. When in danger and hunted by birds, it flies in an erratic fashion, quickly falls and hides itself in leaves, closing its wings to melt into its surroundings. Mostly, the dead leaf butterfly stays on the ground with fallen leaves or on tree trunks, but it occasionally visits flowers. It feeds on rotting fruit and animal dung, and its natural predators include birds, ants, spiders and wasps. Here are some photos of this magical butterfly taken in Malaysia. 

About Butterfly World

The butterfly is one of the most beautiful insects, known as "flying flower" and the "beauty of the insect kingdom." Butterflies play a key role in the food chain as both prey and predator. In addition, butterflies are particularly effective at indicating subtle ecosystem changes because their short lifespan allows them to respond quickly to these changes. 

(Photos via CFP)

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