Hectorides Swallowtail
Common NameHectorides Swallowtail
Scientific NameHeraclides hectorides
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)90
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, citrus groves
Geographic RangeSouth America (Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay)
Host PlantsCitrus spp., Zanthoxylum spp.
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on Rutaceae plants, often camouflaged as bird droppings when young, and possess an osmeterium for defense. Pupae are chrysalides, typically cryptic.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the broad, continuous white band on black wings, the presence of long tails, and the distinctive orange and white spots on the hindwing margin.
Description
A large, striking black swallowtail with a prominent, broad white band extending across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwings feature a submarginal row of orange and white spots and long tails.
