Painted Jezebel
About the Painted Jezebel in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Painted Jezebel (Delias hyparete metarete) is a medium-sized butterfly that can be commonly found across the island. They are often spotted high up among the treetops where its host plant, the Malayan Mistletoe (Dendrophthoe pentandra), grows. It only stops flying through the canopies when feeding at lower, flowering shrubs or resting in shaded understories.
Identifying features
Check out some of the identifying features of the Painted Jezebel below.
The Painted Jezebel has a fully white upperside, with black veins. The female is more heavily dusted with black as compared to the male of this species. On its underside, its hindwing has a distinctive yellow and red patch.
Interested to learn more about how to identify Butterflies? Check out our simple guide on identifying Butterflies!
Habitat and ecology
The Painted Jezebel can often be found in urban areas, parks, gardens, and nature reserves.
Did you know?
Its bright, conspicuous colouration warns predators of its unpalatability.
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Learn more about the Painted Jezebel!
Curious about the Painted Jezebel? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
