Taiwanese Glazed Swallowtail
Common NameTaiwanese Glazed Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio hoppo
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsblack, dark green, blue
HabitatMountainous forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeTaiwan
Host PlantsZanthoxylum ailanthoides, Zanthoxylum armatum
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are typically green with cryptic patterns, feeding on the leaves. They pupate into a chrysalis, often camouflaged as a twig, before emerging as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark wings with striking iridescent blue-green patches on the hindwings. Its range is restricted to Taiwan, making geographical location a key identifier.
Description
This medium-sized swallowtail butterfly has velvety black wings adorned with brilliant iridescent blue-green patches, particularly prominent on the hindwings.
