Common Name: Circe
Scientific Name: Hestinalis nama
Family: Nymphalidae
Nepali Name: 
Size: 72-85 mm
Location: Charaudi, Dhading, Nepal

The Circe is a large and elegant butterfly of the family Nymphalidae, found in forests, woodland edges, river valleys, and open habitats across Nepal. Its wings are predominantly velvety black with broad white bands crossing both the forewings and hindwings, creating a bold contrast. A series of orange to reddish-orange spots near the wing margins adds to its distinctive appearance, while the underside is paler with similar markings. This species has a broad wingspan and a strong, graceful flight, often gliding through the forest canopy or visiting damp ground and hilltops.

In Nepal, the Circe has been recorded from elevations of approximately 180 to 2300 meters, ranging from the lowland Terai to the mid-hills. It is widespread and can be encountered throughout much of the year in suitable habitats.

Please feel free to comment below if the above species has been misidentified.

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