Explore the spectacular colors through the lens of photographer Adedotun Ajibade.
Step inside the kaleidoscopic world of Nigeria’s butterflies. With over 1000 documented species and counting, these winged wonders captivate us with their beauty and grace, reminding us of the importance of protecting our delicate ecosystems. Join environmentalist and nature photographer Adedotun Ajibade as we embark on a journey to discover some of the most magnificent butterflies of Nigeria.
- Catopsilia florella butterfly
Known as the ‘African migrant,’ this stunning female butterfly boasts a vibrant yellow hue, easily spotted in gardens and urban areas.
- Axiocerses harpax butterfly
Found in various African countries, including Nigeria, this butterfly’s forewings can grow up to 18mm, and it is often attracted to flowers in woodlands.
- Black-spot Bematistes butterfly
Belonging to the Nymphalidae family, this butterfly’s elongated forewings and rounded hindwings make for a striking sight, captured here in Port Harcourt.
- Acraea butterfly
Photographed in Port Harcourt, this Acraea butterfly showcases semi-transparent orange wings adorned with black spots, one of over 200 species found in tropical climates.
- Belenois calypso and Papilio demodocus butterflies
Spot two different species together: the vibrant yellow and white Belenois calypso and the mesmerizing wings of the Papilio demodocus, also known as the Christmas butterfly.
- Myrina silenus butterfly
Also known as the common fig-tree blue, this butterfly boasts wings of black, blue, and red, adding a burst of color to its surroundings.
- Appias sabina butterfly
Commonly found in forests, the Appias sabina butterfly, also known as the Sabine albatross or albatross white, graces us with its elegance in Port Harcourt.
- Common Swordtail butterfly
With kaleidoscopic colors reflecting its habitat, the Common Swordtail butterfly is a sight to behold, captured here in Imota, Lagos.
- Common Blue Charaxes butterfly
Belonging to the Nymphalidae family, this butterfly’s camouflage coloring serves as protection in dry forest areas, with wings reaching up to 100mm.
- Graphium angolanus butterfly
The Angola white lady, photographed during sunset, showcases its beauty from the Papilionidae family, adorned with captivating white spots.
- Ringlet butterfly
With brown and grey hues accented by blue, beige, and black eyespots, the Ringlet butterfly is a common sight in Africa and Europe.
Ready to explore for yourself? Head out early to a lush garden or nature park, where you can witness Nigeria’s spectacular butterflies in all their glory.
Credits: Story
Adedotun Ajibade is an environmentalist and nature photographer based in Nigeria. His passion for exploring Nigeria’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage drives him to showcase these aspects of the country through his photography, highlighting their beauty and importance.
