Spangle

This beautiful dark butterfly loves the sage and the jasmine flowers. It is friendly enough as long as I don't have a camera in my hand. I have been trying not to "stalk" it since summer began. The side view drinking sage nectar was shot in the evening several weeks ago. The hovering wings are in constant motion, hence the blur. Early this morning, the Spangle (Papilio protenor demetrius) was lounging motionless in the Rose of Sharon tree, so I got a still shot, though not perfect, as the shadows and dark wing colors were difficult for me and the lens to resolve.
Demetrius is the Japanese subspecies of the Spangle, which ranges across China to the Himalayas. Demetrius' range is mostly in southern areas of Japan, however, in the past few years it has moved north, and has taken up an abode here, on the outskirts of Tokyo.

Many years ago I saw myriad Spangles flying above the jungle canopy on Iriomote Island, (East China Sea) along with the Common Bluebottle (Graphium sarpedon)(actually not so common, as it ranges in the tropical areas of Japan and Korea) and the Indian Fritillary (Argyreus hyperbius a.k.a Painted Lady.)

Now I can see all three species in my garden outside of Tokyo. Someday I may actually be able to get photos of them all.
Yesterday afternoon the Indian Fritillary was chasing the Spangle around the garden in what looked like some kind of territorial squabble. I hope the Fritillary takes some time out to pollinate the bitter melon!