Common Mormon Swallowtail
Common NameCommon Mormon Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio polytes
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatGardens, open woodlands, cultivated areas, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia
Host PlantsCitrus, Murraya, Aegle, Clausena
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are green with cryptic markings, often resembling bird droppings when young. They pupate into a chrysalis that can be green or brown, blending with the surroundings.
Identification TipsLook for the overall black coloration with a distinct chain of white spots on the hindwings. Females are polymorphic, with some forms mimicking unpalatable swallowtails like the Common Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae).
Description
A medium-sized black swallowtail butterfly with a prominent series of white spots along the outer margin of the hindwings. The hindwings are slightly scalloped, and some individuals may show blue and orange markings near the tails.
