Novice butterfly

Afrikaans name: Outannie

Photo © Steven Herbert

Amauris ochlea ochlea

The Novice butterfly may be seen at any time of the year but is most abunant in April and May.

Males have a wingspan of just below 6 cm and females are slightly larger with a wingspan of up to 6.5 cm. Although male and female have similar colours the female may be identified by her having a brownish-black colouration instead of black. The male has a brownish scent-patch on its hind wing.

The Novice has a narrow distribution along the coastal regions of KwaZulu-Natal.

This species has a tendency to damage its wings - presumably as it flies through vegetation.

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References and further reading

Butterflies of Southern Africa - A field guide - Author: Mark Williams - Year Published: 1994 - Page: 151

Butterflies of the Kruger National Park - Author: Johan Kloppers and the late Dr. G. Van Son - Year Published: 1978 - Page: 58

Field Guide to Butterflies of South Africa - Author: Steve Woodhall - Year Published: 2005 - Page: 38

Ivor Migdoll's Field Guide to the Butterflies of Southern Africa - Author: Ivor Migdoll - Year Published: 1987 - Page: 146

What's That Butterfly - Author: Steve Woodhall - Year Published: 2008 - Page: 504