Central Malaysian Butterflies

18th August 2025, Selangor, elevation of 300M. 11:27AM A fairly common butterfly that is usually found at low elevations. It flies rather fast and low, only landing on shrubs, bushes and grass in open areas. This individual was seen at a grassy car park of a waterfall.   Lifer 0643/1051

21st July 2025, Pahang Highlands, elevation of 1150M. 5:16PM Although this butterfly has been reported as common in some localities, I have only seen it once after many trips to different highland areas, and very few other butterfliers have even seen this species, let alone it in abundance. Its population has probably decreased due to poaching and deforestation. This individual flew slowly and perched quite high up in the foliage, where it refused to move even after various attempts to shake the tree.  Udara (Hedge Blue) species are relatively difficult to identify especially without an upperside. A butterfly expert confirmed this species to be albocaerulea due to its underside spot 7 being no darker than the other spots, as well as its appearance being rather white even for an Udara. Lifer 0574/1051

 4th August 2025, Pahang Highlands, elevation of 800M. 8:50 AM. A striking butterfly that is most frequently seen in the morning and late afternoon. In the Malaysian dry season, their population seems to spike, and multiple individuals can be found in the area despite it a relatively rare butterfly. Usually found on exposed hilltops and ridges, but can be seen at the foothills too. Flies fairly fast like the other members of the Genus, and has a habit of returning to roughly the same perch while dogfighting, and even after human disturbance.  Lifer 0620/1051