The red-striped butterfly, threatened by climate change and habitat destruction, has been designated as the Ministry of Climate Energy and Environment's 'endangered species of the month' for August.
On August 3, the ministry announced that the red-striped butterfly, classified as an endangered species level II, has been selected as the representative protected species for August.
The red-striped butterfly is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 57 to 60 mm. It is characterized by its dark brown wings adorned with yellowish spots and distinct red stripes, which inspired its name.
Females are larger than males and have lighter wing coloration. A bright band pattern across the center of the wings is also relatively wide.
Adults emerge once a year. The caterpillars overwinter in the third instar and begin to grow again in the spring, becoming pupae by June. After about three weeks, they metamorphose into adults, primarily observed in July and August.
Red-striped butterfly caterpillars are rare among domestic butterflies as they feed on pine needles.
The main habitats are high-quality forests where coniferous and broadleaf trees coexist. Due to their limited range, habitat destruction makes it difficult for them to relocate, highlighting the importance of habitat protection.
As a species adapted to cooler mountain temperatures, the recent rise in average temperatures is also considered a threat to their survival.
In South Korea, they are found in the northeastern mountainous regions, including Seoraksan and Odaesan, and are also discovered in countries like China and Russia.
Capturing, collecting, damaging, or killing the red-striped butterfly without permission can result in penalties of up to three years in prison or fines ranging from 3 million to 30 million won, according to relevant laws.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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