SINGAPORE - With more than 7,500 votes cast, the Common Rose has emerged as Singapore's national butterfly, beating five other candidates in the contest organised by the Nature Society Singapore.

The butterfly is medium-sized and is found mainly in forests, although it occasionally feeds on the nectar of flowers found in parks and gardens on the forest edge. Its body is bright red, while the wings are black with contrasting red and white patterns. The society said the patterns reflect Singapore's national flag, with the red dots and white streaks reminiscent of the five stars and crescent moon.

The society had launched the competition in March to raise awareness of how butterflies enhance the environment, and to highlight the need to protect them and their natural forest habitat.

Singaporeans, permanent and working residents could go to a website to vote for one of six butterfly species shortlisted by experts based on beauty, size, uniqueness to Singapore and other factors.

The other five candidates were the Painted Jezebel, Common Birdwing, Common Tiger, Common Tree Nymph and Knight.

All in, 7,603 votes were cast, with the Common Rose garnering 37 per cent of them. The Painted Jezebel was the first runner-up with 27 per cent of the votes and the Common Tiger was third with 21 per cent.