Palawan Swallowtail
Common NamePalawan Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio palawanicus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)130
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange
HabitatTropical forests, often near streams and damp areas
Geographic RangePalawan Island, Philippines
Host PlantsEuodia species, Citrus species (Rutaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climate
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae are typically cryptic, often mimicking bird droppings when young, and possess an osmeterium for defense.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, glossy black wings with specific white forewing spots, red-orange hindwing lunules, and long, spatulate tails. Its endemic range to Palawan is a key identifier.
Description
A large, striking black swallowtail butterfly with prominent white spots on the forewings and a series of red-orange crescent-shaped markings on the hindwings, which also feature long, spatulate tails.
