Alpine Black Swallowtail
Common NameAlpine Black Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio paris
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)115
Primary Colorsblack, green, blue
HabitatForests, woodlands, hills, and valleys
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (including India, China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia)
Host PlantsZanthoxylum, Euodia, Toddalia, Citrus
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout warmer months, varying by region
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green and cryptic, pupating into a chrysalis that matches its surroundings.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, extensive iridescent green on the forewings, a distinct iridescent blue patch on the hindwings, and long, sword-like tails.
Description
This large, black swallowtail butterfly features brilliant iridescent green scaling on its forewings and a prominent, iridescent blue patch on each hindwing, which also bear long, slender tails.
