Mexican Kite Swallowtail
Common NameMexican Kite Swallowtail
Scientific NameEurytides epidaus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, black, pale blue, red
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America (Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama)
Host PlantsAnnona reticulata, Annona purpurea, Annona squamosa, Rollinia jimenezii
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, more common during rainy season
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green or brown, camouflaged, and pupate into a chrysalis that mimics a twig or leaf.
Identification TipsKey features include the very long, slender tails, the prominent black stripes on a pale background, and the subtle pale blue-green tint on the forewings. Small red markings near the body on the hindwings are also characteristic.
Description
A distinctive swallowtail with long, slender tails, featuring white to pale blue-green wings boldly marked with black stripes. Small red spots are visible at the base of the hindwings.
