Papilio ulysses
Scientific NamePapilio ulysses
FamilyPapilionidae
HabitatTropical rainforests, especially near clearings and forest edges.
Conservation StatusLeast Concern (not globally threatened, though local populations can be affected by habitat loss and collection).
Description
The Ulysses butterfly (Papilio ulysses) is a large, striking swallowtail butterfly native to Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. It is renowned for its brilliant iridescent blue wings, which appear black from certain angles, and a black body. The underside of the wings is a duller brown or black, often with small red or orange spots. Males are typically more vibrant than females. They are strong fliers and are often seen in rainforest clearings.
