O-Ichimonji Fluttering All About


Now, in Kamikōchi, o-ichimonji are fluttering around in abundance. “What is that?” I’m sure everyone is thinking. Well, it’s a butterfly of the Poplar Admiral species. This is no ordinary butterfly, however. It is a protected species in Nagano Prefecture. It’s name means large line, and as you can see in the following picture, there is a white line along its back.

O-Ichi-Monji (Poplar Admiral Butterfly)

Just recently these butterflies metamorphosed from caterpillars. More beautiful than their backs are the undersides of their wings. With blue, orange, white, and black, their wings are truly a work of art.

O-Ichi-Monji (Poplar Admiral Butterfly)

As much as you might want to touch them, however, please don’t. They are a protected species, and it is worried that too many have been collected by people already. Feel free to take as many pictures as you desire, but touching and/or collecting them is strictly forbidden.

How about making Kamikōchi your new butterfly and insect watching background?

 

Source of Information:

– Kamikōchi National Park Guide Website (http://npg-alps.net/)