Bahamian Swallowtail
Common NameBahamian Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio andraemon
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, pale yellow
HabitatOpen woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas, coastal scrub
Geographic RangeBahamas, Cuba, Cayman Islands, occasionally southern Florida
Host PlantsCitrus species, other Rutaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical parts of its range, with multiple broods; more active during warmer months.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars initially mimic bird droppings, then develop into green larvae with false eyespots, feeding on citrus leaves. The chrysalis is typically green or brown, camouflaged on the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its broad, pale yellow bands on a black background, especially the continuous band across the forewing. The hindwings have characteristic tails and subtle blue and orange spots.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with a black background adorned with prominent pale yellow bands across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwings feature small blue and orange markings near the tails.
