Common Raven Butterfly
Common NameCommon Raven Butterfly
Scientific NamePapilio castor
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)105
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsCitrus, Zanthoxylum, Toddalia, Euodia, Clausena, Murraya
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are cryptic, resembling bird droppings when young, then green with markings. Pupae are camouflaged as twigs or leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, overall velvety black wings, and the distinct row of white spots on the hindwings. It lacks the tails often seen in other swallowtail species.
Description
A large, striking black swallowtail butterfly with a prominent row of white spots along the outer margin of its hindwings.
