Macleay's Swallowtail
Common NameMacleay's Swallowtail
Scientific NameGraphium macleayanum
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsgreen, black, brown, red
HabitatRainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, forest edges, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria), New Guinea
Host PlantsAcronychia, Citrus, Geijera, Melicope, Zanthoxylum
Flight PeriodSeptember to May (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with yellow markings, developing into a green or brown chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking bright green and black pattern, the broad black band on the forewing, and the distinctive short tails on the hindwings, often with a small red spot on the underside.
Description
This butterfly displays vibrant green wings with prominent black markings and brown edges, particularly on the underside. The hindwings feature short, dark tails and a small red spot near the body.
