18/06/2026
Not all great travellers have feathers.
The Belenois aurota, better known as the South African Meadow White or Brown-veined White butterfly, is one of nature’s great travellers.
During peak migration periods, millions can take to the air, creating spectacular moving clouds of butterflies across southern Africa.
Their marbled yellow, white and black wings help them blend into grasses and wildflowers, while their fast, darting flight allows them to cover remarkable distances in search of food and breeding grounds.
A small butterfly with a surprisingly big journey.
Photo credit: