Insects and Arachnids
Peacock Tarantula
This unique and rare spider was first described in 1899 and has only been recorded a few times in the wild since. It’s known range is restricted to less than 100 km2 in Andhra Pradesh, and this small area is also rapidly degrading due to logging and firewood harvesting. It is also threatened by collection for pet trade. This species is listed under Appendix II of the CITES Global Trade Database
This unique and rare spider was first described in 1899 and has only been recorded a few times in the wild since. It’s known range is restricted to less than 100 km2 in Andhra Pradesh, and this small area is also rapidly degrading due to logging and firewood harvesting. It is also threatened by collection for pet trade. This species is listed under Appendix II of the CITES Global Trade Database
Indian Moon Moth
Also known as Indian luna moth, this moth is known to be nocturnal, and is a saturniid species from Asia (which are among the largest of the moths).
Tamil lacewing
Native to Sri Lanka and south India, the Tamil lacewing (Cethosia nietneri) is a nymphalid butterfly. Named after John Nietner who got specimens from Ceylon from which it was described, this species flaunts an unmistakable upper side tawny yellow (as seen in this dorsal view) and has black antennae, ochraceous abdomen that is barred with black, with many black dots.
Orange oakleaf
Also known as Indian oakleaf and dead leaf, this multivoltine, nymphalid butterfly derives its name from how closely its wings look like a dry leaf among foliage when it’s in closed position – a perfect camouflage when predated by birds. The forewing, when the wings are open, flaunts black apex, bright orange bands and a blue base.The orange oakleaf inhabits Tropical Asia, and in India, it is found in the low elevations of the Himalaya and states of northeast. It is known to be a powerful flier in dense forests with undergrowth and stream beds.
Kaiser-I-Hind
First described in 1884, the name of this elusive swallowtail butterfly literally translates to "Emperor of India". It is found in parts of northeast India, in mid to high elevation mountains within well-wooded areas, and was once abundant in the Khasi Hills. Their populations have since, declined due to habitat degradation and trade (collected as trophies).This species is listed in Appendix II of the CITES Global Trade Database. The sub-species
(Teinopalpus imperialis imperialis) is also protected under Schedule II Part II of
Wildlife (Protection) Act in India.
(Teinopalpus imperialis imperialis) is also protected under Schedule II Part II of
Wildlife (Protection) Act in India.
