The Great Eggfly is a widespread species of butterfly.
The popular name 'Eggfly' refers to the extraordinary parental behaviour of safeguarding their offspring. Prior to laying any eggs they they inspect various leaves to ensure that there are no ants present. After ovipositing (laying eggs) the females then stand guard over their eggs, forming a protective umbrella to shield them from parasitoid wasps. They remain in this position until all the eggs have hatched and the caterpillars have dispersed, by which time the protective female has usually died in situ.