Tailed Jay
Common NameTailed Jay
Scientific NameGraphium agamemnon
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgreen, black
HabitatTropical forests, gardens, clearings, urban areas
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, South Asia (India, Sri Lanka), parts of Australia
Host PlantsAnnona muricata, Polyalthia longifolia, Uvaria rufa, Magnolia champaca
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are green with yellow markings and develop into a green or brown pupa that mimics a twig or leaf, often with a horn-like projection.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive bright emerald green spots and bands on a velvety black background, and its characteristic rapid, darting flight pattern. The short tails on the hindwings are also a key feature.
Description
A striking butterfly with vibrant green markings on a black background, featuring a series of green spots that form bands across both forewings and hindwings, and short, stubby tails on the hindwings.
