Great Kite-Swallowtail
Common NameGreat Kite-Swallowtail
Scientific NameEurytides marcellinus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, black, red, yellow
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeJamaica
Host PlantsAnnona reticulata, Annona muricata
Flight PeriodYear-round (more abundant in certain seasons)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are typically green with white markings, and pupae are camouflaged as twigs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its prominent white and black striped pattern, very long hindwing tails, and a bright red submarginal line on the underside of the hindwings. It is endemic to Jamaica.
Description
A striking swallowtail with long, slender tails, featuring a white ground color heavily marked with bold black stripes and a distinctive red line on the hindwing.
