IUCN RED LIST
Established in 1964, The IUCN Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity. Species are classified by the IUCN Red List into nine groups, through criteria such as rate of decline, population size and area of geographic distribution as:
- Extinct (EX) – This species is no longer extant
- Extinct in the wild (EW) – Survives only in captivity, or through cultivation often outside native range
- Critically endangered (CR) – In an extremely critical state
- Endangered (EN) – Very high risk of extinction in the wild
- Vulnerable (VU) – At high risk of unnatural (human-caused) extinction
- Near Threatened (NT) – Close to being endangered in the near future
- Least Concern (LC) – Widespread and abundant in the wild
- Data Deficient (DD) – Inadequate information to assess extinction risk
- Not Evaluated (NE) – Has not yet been assessed
The butterfly has pale lemon-yellow to greenish-white wings with delicate black markings along the margins. Seasonal variations occur, with some forms appearing brighter or greener depending on climate. The underside often has faint silvery markings that help camouflage among leaves.
The Common Emigrant is an active and strong-flying butterfly known for its rapid and purposeful flight. It is usually seen flying continuously in open areas and gardens. During certain seasons, large groups may travel together, giving rise to its name “Emigrant.” It is active mainly during sunny daytime hours.
The Common Emigrant is known for seasonal migratory behaviour. Large groups may migrate locally or regionally in response to rainfall, temperature changes, and availability of food plants.
Breeding occurs throughout the year, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Females lay spindle-shaped eggs singly on young leaves and buds of host plants such as cassia species. Caterpillars feed on foliage and later pupate attached to stems or leaves. Courtship involves fluttering aerial movements by males.
Strong wings support long-distance seasonal movement. Pale wing coloration helps reflect sunlight in hot climates. Leaf-like underside markings provide camouflage while resting. Rapid flight helps escape predators efficiently. Often flies continuously without resting for extended periods.
Adult Common Emigrants mainly feed on nectar from flowering plants including lantana, hibiscus, jasmine, and ixora. Caterpillars feed primarily on leaves of cassia and related host plants belonging to the Fabaceae family.
The Common Emigrant is commonly found in gardens, open forests, scrublands, agricultural fields, parks, riverbanks, and urban green spaces. It thrives in sunny habitats with flowering plants and host trees.
