Red-bodied Swallowtail
Common NameRed-bodied Swallowtail
Scientific NamePachliopta hector
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)95
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, white
HabitatOpen forests, scrublands, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeSouthern India, Sri Lanka
Host PlantsAristolochia indica, Aristolochia bracteolata, Aristolochia tagala
Flight PeriodYear-round, with peaks during monsoon seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on Aristolochia host plants. Larvae are dark with fleshy spines and sequester toxins from host plants, making them unpalatable. Pupae are green or brown, camouflaged as leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsKey features include its bright red body, velvety black wings, and the prominent series of large crimson spots on the hindwings, often accompanied by a white patch on the forewings (though not fully visible in this angle).
Description
A large, striking swallowtail butterfly with velvety black wings, a bright red body, and a distinctive pattern of white and crimson spots on its hindwings.
