Kaiser-i-Hind
Common NameKaiser-i-Hind
Scientific NameTeinopalpus imperialis
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)100
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgreen, black, yellow
HabitatHigh-altitude evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, montane regions
Geographic RangeEastern Himalayas (India, Nepal, Bhutan), northern Myanmar, northern Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China
Host PlantsMagnolia campbellii, Magnolia globosa, Michelia
Flight PeriodApril to August
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay single eggs on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are green and cryptic, feeding on magnolia leaves before pupating on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsKey features include the iridescent green/blue on black coloration, the large yellow/orange patch on the hindwing, and the long, broad, spatulate tails. Often seen flying high in dense montane forests.
Description
A magnificent swallowtail butterfly characterized by its iridescent metallic green or blue-green upperwings against a black background, adorned with striking yellow or orange markings on the hindwings and long, spatulate tails.
