Chinese Peacock Swallowtail
Common NameChinese Peacock Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio bianor
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)100
Primary Colorsblack, green, blue, red
HabitatForests, woodlands, forest edges, often near streams or damp areas for puddling
Geographic RangeEast Asia (China, Japan, Korea) and parts of Southeast Asia (e.g., northern India, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam)
Host PlantsZanthoxylum, Phellodendron, Euodia, Citrus
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods, varies by region)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are initially dark, resembling bird droppings, then turn green with cryptic patterns. Pupae are typically green or brown, camouflaged as twigs or leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include the large size, iridescent green scaling on a black background, prominent tails on the hindwings, and a row of red and blue submarginal spots on the hindwings.
Description
A large, striking swallowtail butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with brilliant iridescent green scaling, especially on the forewings and central hindwings, and distinctive tails on the hindwings featuring submarginal red and blue spots.
