Hey, I remember you!
A Glassy Tiger butterfly beckons
Ah, greetings! It’s me, Nervus Illnus, your humble Glassy Tiger. The last time you heard from me, a few years ago, I was tangled in an amusing tête-à-tête with Nefarious Purpus, the ever-dramatic Plain Tiger butterfly. What an encounter that was! Do you remember? He called me “a foul shade of hell”? Honestly, I found it flattering. My elegant, semi-transparent wings with intricate black patterns and soothing blue accents are nothing short of ethereal, wouldn’t you agree? We Glassy Tigers take pride in our mimicry of toxic butterflies like Nefarious’s kind. It’s not imitation; it’s survival. Predators think twice before messing with a butterfly that might taste terrible. Adaptation is the name of the game, my friends. Now, I don’t dwell in stinky buffalo fields like some Tigers I could name. Instead, I prefer the fringes of forests and lush gardens, sipping nectar from sweet-smelling flowers. My favourites? Lantana and Ixora blooms—they’re divine! But it’s not all about indulgence. You see, I’m also quite the conservationist, pollinating plants as I flit about. Modest yet essential, that’s the Glassy Tiger way!

Fun Facts
But life isn’t all about dodging accusations and discussing evolutionary tactics. There are puddle parties to attend too! Ever heard of “puddling”? Oh, it’s quite the social affair! We butterflies gather around damp soil to sip up vital salts and minerals. Picture a butterfly conference, minus the bickering. I suspect Neffy’s outburst might stem from sniffing something less nutritious than a puddle! Still, I can’t help but feel a little sympathy for him. Being the poster child for butterfly art must be a heavy burden to bear. So, the next time you see a butterfly with translucent wings and a hint of blue, think of me, Nervus Illnus—serene, stylish, and sipping on nectar in the company of friends. Oh, and give Neffy a nod too, wherever he may be… probably in another puddle of trouble!
Story of the Photo
Situated on the borders of major National Parks, the peaceful surroundings of Mahoora Tented Safari Camps are home to a variety of wildlife, and present guests with excellent sighting opportunities. Dilum captured this shot of a beautiful Glassy Tiger at the Mahoora Tented Safari Camp in Yala.