Southern Chinese Peacock Swallowtail
Common NameSouthern Chinese Peacock Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio dialis
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)90
Primary Colorsblack, green, blue, red, purple
HabitatSubtropical and tropical forests, forest edges, hilly regions
Geographic RangeSouthern China, northern Vietnam, Laos
Host PlantsZanthoxylum nitidum, other Rutaceae species
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown, often mimicking bird droppings in early instars, and pupate into a camouflaged chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark ground color, extensive iridescent green-blue scaling on the hindwings, the specific pattern of red and blue ocelli near the tails, and the long, spatulate tails.
Description
A large, dark swallowtail butterfly characterized by its extensive iridescent emerald green and blue scaling on the hindwings, which also feature prominent tails and distinct red and blue ocelli.
