Swallowtail butterflies are among the most stunning and diverse butterflies in the world, admired for their vibrant colors, long tails, and graceful flight. Found across almost every continent, they thrive in forests, meadows, gardens, and even urban areas. This list highlights 25 fascinating types of swallowtails, each with unique traits, behaviors, and habitats, showcasing the beauty and adaptability of this remarkable butterfly family.
1. Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is one of the most iconic swallowtail butterflies in North America. Known for its large size and bold yellow-and-black striped wings, it is a frequent sight in gardens, forests, and meadows. Its striking appearance makes it a favorite among butterfly watchers and photographers.
Identification
- Bright yellow wings with bold black tiger-like stripes
- Wingspan ranges between 7.9–14 cm (3.1–5.5 in)
- Males are yellow with four black stripes; females can be yellow or dark (mimic form)
- Long tails on the hindwings resembling a swallow’s tail
Habitat
This butterfly is commonly found in deciduous forests, along rivers, and in suburban gardens. It prefers open sunny areas but needs nearby trees for breeding.
Behavior
Eastern Tiger Swallowtails are strong fliers. Males often gather in groups at mud puddles to extract minerals, while females are usually seen fluttering near nectar-rich flowers.
Diet
Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers such as lilacs, milkweed, wild cherry, and joe-pye weed. They also sip moisture and salts from damp soil, mud puddles, and occasionally animal droppings to supplement their diet.
2. Western Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio rutulus)
The Western Tiger Swallowtail is a large, brightly colored butterfly found in western North America. It closely resembles the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail but can be distinguished by subtle differences in wing shape and pattern. Its graceful flight and striking colors make it a well-known summer visitor to gardens and woodlands.
Identification
- Bright yellow wings with black stripes and borders
- Wingspan ranges from 7–10 cm (2.7–4 in)
- Hindwings have thin tails and a row of blue spots near the edge
- Black stripes are usually broader compared to the Eastern species
Habitat
This butterfly thrives in riparian woodlands, valleys, canyons, parks, and urban gardens across the western United States and southern Canada. They are most active in sunny open spaces near water sources.
Behavior
Western Tiger Swallowtails are powerful fliers, often gliding high among treetops. Males frequently gather at stream banks and puddles to obtain minerals, while females spend more time searching for suitable plants and nectar sources.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as thistles, lilacs, butterfly bush, and milkweed. They also sip nutrients from wet sand, mud, and decaying organic matter to maintain energy for flight and reproduction.
3. Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio canadensis)
The Canadian Tiger Swallowtail is a northern species closely related to the Eastern and Western tiger swallowtails. It is slightly smaller in size and specially adapted to survive in colder climates. Its bold black-and-yellow striped wings make it easy to recognize during the short summer months in Canada and the northern United States.
Identification
- Yellow wings with distinct black tiger-like stripes
- Wingspan ranges from 6.7–8.5 cm (2.6–3.3 in)
- Hindwings have narrow tails with blue and orange spots near the edges
- Smaller and paler compared to Eastern and Western tiger swallowtails
Habitat
This butterfly is found in boreal forests, meadows, and along river edges throughout Canada and the northern U.S. It prefers cooler regions where other tiger swallowtails are less common.
Behavior
Canadian Tiger Swallowtails are active during the brief northern summer. They are strong fliers and often seen gliding above treetops or visiting flowers in open fields. Males gather at damp soil for minerals, while females focus on finding nectar sources and places to lay eggs.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from wildflowers such as dandelions, lilacs, wild cherry blossoms, and milkweed. They also seek out moisture and minerals from wet ground and decaying plant matter to support their activity.
4. Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor)
The Pipevine Swallowtail is a striking butterfly native to North and Central America. It is best known for its shimmering blue hindwings and its close association with pipevine plants. This species is also important in mimicry complexes, as many other butterflies imitate its appearance to avoid predators.
Identification
- Black forewings with iridescent blue hindwings
- Wingspan ranges between 7–13 cm (2.7–5 in)
- Hindwings have a row of orange spots on the underside
- Caterpillars are dark with fleshy orange or red tubercles
Habitat
Pipevine Swallowtails inhabit gardens, meadows, forests, and roadsides, especially in regions where pipevine plants grow. They are common across the southern and eastern United States, extending into Mexico and Central America.
Behavior
These butterflies are strong and graceful fliers, often gliding low over flowers. Males patrol open areas in search of females, while females stay near host plants to lay eggs. Their warning colors protect them from predators, as they are distasteful due to toxins from the pipevine.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from a wide range of flowers, including thistles, lantana, azaleas, and milkweed. They also sip minerals from mud puddles and damp soil, which provide essential nutrients for reproduction.
5. Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)
The Spicebush Swallowtail is a beautiful butterfly native to the eastern United States. It is recognized for its dark wings with iridescent blue or green scaling on the hindwings. This species is also famous for its caterpillars, which mimic snakes to scare away predators.
Identification
- Dark blackish-brown wings with iridescent blue or green hindwings (brighter in females)
- Wingspan ranges from 8–11 cm (3.1–4.3 in)
- Hindwings have pale spots along the edge and a distinctive orange spot near the tail
- Caterpillars are green with large eyespots that resemble a snake’s head
Habitat
Spicebush Swallowtails are found in woodlands, fields, swamps, and suburban gardens where spicebush and sassafras grow. They thrive in shaded and moist habitats.
Behavior
These butterflies are agile and quick fliers, often seen visiting flowers near forest edges. Males patrol open sunny areas in search of mates, while females remain close to host plants. The caterpillars’ snake-like appearance provides effective protection from birds.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as thistles, honeysuckle, azaleas, and jewelweed. They also sip minerals from damp soil and mud puddles to boost reproductive success.
6. Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)
The Black Swallowtail is a widespread butterfly in North America, admired for its striking black wings decorated with rows of yellow, blue, and red markings. It is often spotted in gardens, fields, and meadows, making it one of the most familiar swallowtails to butterfly enthusiasts.
Identification
- Predominantly black wings with yellow spots forming bands across the wings
- Wingspan ranges from 7–10 cm (2.7–4 in)
- Females have more blue scaling on the hindwings, while males display more yellow
- Two red eyespots with black centers appear near the hindwing tails
Habitat
This species is commonly found in open fields, farmlands, gardens, and meadows throughout North America. It thrives in sunny areas where host plants and nectar sources are abundant.
Behavior
Black Swallowtails are active fliers, often seen flitting among flowers or perching on tall grasses. Males establish and defend territories to attract females, while females are more solitary as they search for egg-laying sites.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, thistle, clover, and zinnias. They also visit damp soil for minerals, which are vital for reproduction and flight stamina.
7. Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)
The Giant Swallowtail is the largest butterfly in North America, easily recognized by its bold black-and-yellow wing patterns. Its impressive wingspan and graceful flight make it a spectacular sight in gardens, woodlands, and citrus groves.
Identification
- Large black wings with striking yellow bands forming an “X” pattern
- Wingspan ranges from 10–16 cm (4–6.3 in), making it the largest swallowtail in the region
- Hindwings feature yellow spots and red-orange eyespots near the tails
- Caterpillars resemble bird droppings as camouflage against predators
Habitat
This butterfly inhabits woodlands, fields, and citrus orchards across North and Central America. It is especially common in the southern U.S., where citrus trees serve as important host plants.
Behavior
Giant Swallowtails are strong, elegant fliers, often gliding high above treetops before descending to feed. Males patrol sunny open areas, while females stay closer to vegetation. Their large size and bold colors make them highly visible when nectaring.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, bougainvillea, azaleas, goldenrod, and milkweed. They are also attracted to damp soil for minerals, which aid in reproduction and long flights.
8. Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus)
The Zebra Swallowtail is a striking butterfly with bold black-and-white striped wings, giving it a unique appearance among swallowtails. Its long tails and graceful flight make it one of the most easily recognized species in eastern North America.
Identification
- White wings with distinct black zebra-like stripes
- Wingspan ranges from 6.5–11 cm (2.5–4.3 in)
- Long hindwing tails with a bluish wash and red spots near the base
- Caterpillars vary from green to brown, blending well with their surroundings
Habitat
This butterfly is typically found in moist, wooded areas, riverbanks, and fields where pawpaw trees grow. It is most common in the eastern and southeastern United States.
Behavior
Zebra Swallowtails are swift and erratic fliers, often gliding gracefully before darting rapidly. Males patrol open areas for females, while females remain near host plants. Their flight style and distinctive pattern make them hard to miss.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, verbena, dogbane, and clover. They also visit damp soil and mud puddles for essential salts and minerals.
9. Two-tailed Swallowtail (Papilio multicaudata)
The Two-tailed Swallowtail is one of the largest and most striking butterflies in North America. It is easily recognized by its bright yellow wings with bold black stripes and the presence of two tails on each hindwing, which give it its name.
Identification
- Yellow wings with four black stripes across the forewings
- Wingspan ranges from 9–14 cm (3.5–5.5 in)
- Hindwings have two tails each, with blue and orange markings near the edges
- Larger and broader compared to other tiger swallowtails
Habitat
This species is found in woodlands, canyons, gardens, and foothills across the western United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. It is most common in warm, sunny environments near streams and valleys.
Behavior
Two-tailed Swallowtails are powerful fliers and often soar high above treetops. Males are frequently seen puddling at riverbanks or moist ground, while females are more often near flowers or searching for places to lay eggs.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lilacs, thistles, butterfly bush, and milkweed. They also drink moisture and minerals from mud, wet sand, and decaying matter to maintain energy for their large size and active lifestyle.
10. Palamedes Swallowtail (Papilio palamedes)
The Palamedes Swallowtail is a large butterfly commonly found in the southeastern United States, particularly in swampy areas and pine forests. Its dark wings with yellow bands and iridescent blue spots make it a striking species to observe.
Identification
- Dark brown to black wings with a broad yellow band across both forewings and hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 11–13 cm (4.3–5.1 in)
- Hindwings display blue scaling and red-orange spots near the tails
- Resembles the Spicebush Swallowtail but has a broader yellow band
Habitat
This species is typically found in swamps, wetlands, and pine forests of the southeastern U.S., especially in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. It thrives in areas where redbay and swamp bay trees are abundant.
Behavior
Palamedes Swallowtails are strong, steady fliers often seen gliding gracefully near forest edges and wetlands. Males gather at moist soil for minerals, while females spend more time around host plant areas.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as azaleas, lantana, thistles, and pickerelweed. They also seek nutrients from damp soil and puddles, especially in humid environments.
11. Schaus’ Swallowtail (Papilio aristodemus)
Schaus’ Swallowtail is a rare and endangered butterfly found mainly in southern Florida and parts of the Caribbean. Known for its dark coloration with subtle yellow and orange markings, it is one of the most conservation-dependent swallowtails in North America.
Identification
- Dark brown to black wings with faint yellow spots along the edges
- Wingspan ranges from 9–12 cm (3.5–4.7 in)
- Hindwings feature small orange spots and short tails
- Less vibrant than other swallowtails, giving it a more subdued appearance
Habitat
This butterfly inhabits tropical hardwood hammocks in southern Florida, the Florida Keys, and nearby Caribbean islands. It is closely tied to undisturbed forests where its host plants thrive.
Behavior
Schaus’ Swallowtails are strong but deliberate fliers, often staying close to the canopy and shaded areas. Because of their rarity, they are not often seen, and conservation efforts focus on protecting their limited habitats.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from plants such as wild lime, guava, and other flowering trees and shrubs found in their native hammocks. They may also seek minerals from damp soil.
12. Broad-banded Swallowtail (Papilio astyalus)
The Broad-banded Swallowtail is a large, tropical butterfly native to Central and South America. It is known for its striking broad yellow band that cuts across its otherwise dark wings, making it one of the more eye-catching swallowtails in its range.
Identification
- Dark brown to black wings with a wide yellow band across forewings and hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 11–13 cm (4.3–5.1 in)
- Hindwings have long tails with subtle blue and orange markings near the edges
- Males are typically more vividly marked than females
Habitat
This species thrives in tropical and subtropical forests, open fields, and gardens across Central America, extending into South America. It is most commonly found in warm, humid environments.
Behavior
Broad-banded Swallowtails are strong fliers that frequently visit flowers in both forest edges and open fields. Males often gather at damp soil or riverbanks for minerals, while females stay closer to nectar-rich plants and breeding areas.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, hibiscus, bougainvillea, and other tropical flowering plants. They also absorb minerals from mud puddles and moist soil to support reproduction.
13. Polydamas Swallowtail (Battus polydamas)
The Polydamas Swallowtail, also called the Gold-rim Swallowtail, is a tailless swallowtail species found in the Americas. Unlike many other swallowtails, it lacks the characteristic hindwing tails but is easily recognized by its black wings bordered with golden-yellow spots.
Identification
- Black wings with a continuous row of golden-yellow spots along the edges
- Wingspan ranges from 9–11 cm (3.5–4.3 in)
- Lacks tails on the hindwings, unlike most swallowtails
- Caterpillars are reddish-brown to black with soft tubercles
Habitat
This species is found in gardens, open fields, tropical forests, and disturbed areas across the southern United States, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Behavior
Polydamas Swallowtails are active fliers, often seen hovering around flowers. Males gather at damp soil for minerals, while females focus on nectar plants and areas with host plants for egg-laying. Their tailless form makes them distinctive among swallowtails.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, bougainvillea, verbena, and other brightly colored flowers. They also sip nutrients from wet soil and puddles for mineral intake.
14. Old World Swallowtail (Papilio machaon)
The Old World Swallowtail is one of the most widely distributed swallowtail butterflies, found across Europe, Asia, and North America. Its bold yellow-and-black wings, with touches of blue and red on the hindwings, make it one of the most iconic butterfly species globally.
Identification
- Bright yellow wings with bold black vein-like markings
- Wingspan ranges from 6.5–8.6 cm (2.5–3.4 in)
- Hindwings have long tails, blue spots, and a single red eyespot near the edge
- Slight regional variations exist, with subspecies adapted to different climates
Habitat
This butterfly inhabits meadows, gardens, hillsides, and open grasslands across a wide range of climates, from temperate Europe to mountainous regions of Asia and even parts of North America.
Behavior
Old World Swallowtails are strong and agile fliers, often seen soaring over open fields and hillsides. Males establish territories and patrol sunny areas, while females are seen near nectar sources and suitable breeding sites.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from a variety of wildflowers, including thistles, milkweed, and clover. They also extract minerals from mud puddles and damp soil to enhance reproductive success.
15. Asian Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus)
The Asian Swallowtail, also known as the Chinese Yellow Swallowtail, is a widespread butterfly found throughout East Asia. It is admired for its vibrant yellow wings with strong black patterns, making it one of the most familiar swallowtails in the region.
Identification
- Bright yellow wings with bold black borders and bands
- Wingspan ranges from 7–12 cm (2.7–4.7 in)
- Hindwings have tails with a row of blue crescents and an orange-red spot near the base
- Strong resemblance to tiger swallowtails, but smaller in size
Habitat
This butterfly is common in gardens, farmlands, parks, and forest edges across China, Japan, Korea, and other East Asian countries. It is often seen in both rural and urban environments.
Behavior
Asian Swallowtails are fast and lively fliers, frequently visiting flowers in open areas. Males patrol territories to find mates, while females are more often observed near nectar plants and egg-laying sites.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from citrus blossoms, azaleas, lantana, and other flowering plants. They also sip minerals from damp soil and mud puddles to sustain their energy.
16. Common Mormon (Papilio polytes)
The Common Mormon is a highly adaptable swallowtail butterfly widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia. It is famous for its remarkable mimicry, where females imitate toxic butterflies like the Common Rose to avoid predators.
Identification
- Males are black with white spots along the hindwings
- Females show polymorphism, appearing either like males or mimicking other swallowtails
- Wingspan ranges from 7–10 cm (2.7–4 in)
- Hindwings often feature red and blue markings depending on the morph
Habitat
This species thrives in gardens, forests, plantations, and urban areas across India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and other Asian countries. It is particularly abundant where citrus plants grow.
Behavior
Common Mormons are fast and active fliers, often seen darting among flowers. Males are territorial, while females display mimicry forms that help them avoid predators. Their adaptability makes them one of the most successful swallowtail species.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from jasmine, ixora, lantana, and other flowering plants. They also seek minerals from moist soil and mud puddles, which play a vital role in reproduction.
17. Lime Swallowtail (Papilio demoleus)
The Lime Swallowtail, also called the Chequered Swallowtail, is one of the most widespread swallowtails in the world. Unlike many swallowtails, it lacks tails on its hindwings, making it distinct in appearance. It is a fast breeder and often considered an agricultural pest in citrus-growing regions.
Identification
- Black wings with creamy-white patches forming a chequered pattern
- Wingspan ranges from 8–10 cm (3.1–3.9 in)
- Hindwings lack tails, a unique trait among swallowtails
- Red and blue eye-like spots present near the hindwing edges
Habitat
This butterfly is found in gardens, farmlands, orchards, and open fields across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia. It is especially common in citrus-growing areas.
Behavior
Lime Swallowtails are strong, fast fliers that adapt well to urban and rural landscapes. They are often seen basking in the sun or fluttering rapidly between flowers. Their absence of tails sets them apart from most swallowtails.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, marigolds, ixora, and other flowering plants. They also visit damp soil for minerals to aid in reproduction and energy.
18. Great Mormon (Papilio memnon)
The Great Mormon is a large and visually impressive butterfly found across South and Southeast Asia. It is famous for its wide range of female forms, which mimic other unpalatable butterflies, making it a classic example of protective mimicry in nature.
Identification
- Males are black with blue or green sheen on the hindwings
- Females are polymorphic, with several forms mimicking other swallowtail species
- Wingspan ranges from 12–15 cm (4.7–6 in), making it one of the largest swallowtails in Asia
- Hindwings may or may not have tails depending on the morph
Habitat
This butterfly is common in forests, gardens, plantations, and farmlands across India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Behavior
Great Mormons are strong fliers and often seen gliding gracefully among treetops and flowering shrubs. Males are territorial and frequently visit flowers, while females rely on mimicry for protection against predators.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from hibiscus, lantana, ixora, and bougainvillea. They also take in minerals from damp soil and mud puddles to boost reproductive success.
19. Emerald Swallowtail (Papilio palinurus)
The Emerald Swallowtail, also known as the Emerald Peacock or Green-banded Peacock, is one of the most dazzling butterflies in the world. Its shimmering green coloration comes from microscopic scales that reflect light, giving it a metallic glow.
Identification
- Dark black wings with an iridescent emerald-green band across the forewings and hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 8–10 cm (3.1–3.9 in)
- Hindwings feature blue and orange spots near the tails
- The green sheen is structural, not pigment-based, caused by light reflection
Habitat
This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in tropical rainforests of Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It thrives in humid, forested regions.
Behavior
Emerald Swallowtails are swift and elegant fliers, often gliding in sunlit clearings where their green scales shine brilliantly. They are territorial and frequently visit flowering plants in both wild and cultivated areas.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, ixora, hibiscus, and other brightly colored flowers. They also absorb minerals from mud puddles and damp soil, which help sustain their energetic flight.
20. Paris Peacock (Papilio paris)
The Paris Peacock is a stunning swallowtail butterfly found across South and Southeast Asia. It is admired for its velvety black wings decorated with brilliant green and blue iridescent patterns, making it one of the most visually striking butterflies in its range.
Identification
- Velvety black wings with a broad, shimmering green band across the hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 9–12 cm (3.5–4.7 in)
- Hindwings have long tails with bright blue and orange eyespots near the edges
- Males are more vividly colored than females
Habitat
This butterfly inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, river valleys, and hill regions across India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and southern China.
Behavior
Paris Peacocks are powerful fliers, often seen gliding near forest edges and sunny clearings. Males patrol territories and visit wet soil for minerals, while females are more commonly found around nectar-rich plants and host vegetation.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from flowering plants such as lantana, ixora, hibiscus, and bougainvillea. They also gather nutrients from damp soil, rotting fruit, and animal droppings to supplement their diet.
21. Red Helen (Papilio helenus)
The Red Helen is a large and graceful swallowtail butterfly native to South and Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking black wings with white patches and vivid red markings on the hindwings, which give the species its name.
Identification
- Black wings with a prominent white patch on the hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 10–12 cm (3.9–4.7 in)
- Hindwings have red spots and sometimes a bluish sheen near the tails
- Females may show slight variations in the size and shape of the white patch
Habitat
Red Helens are commonly found in tropical forests, gardens, and plantations across India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, southern China, and Malaysia. They are often seen in moist, shaded habitats near flowering plants.
Behavior
These butterflies are powerful but steady fliers, often gliding smoothly through forest paths and open clearings. Males frequently puddle at damp ground for minerals, while females are seen closer to vegetation and flowers.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from hibiscus, ixora, lantana, and other flowering plants. They also absorb essential nutrients from moist soil and decaying organic matter.
22. Blue Mormon (Papilio polymnestor)
The Blue Mormon is one of the largest swallowtail butterflies found in India and Sri Lanka. Its bold black wings contrasted with shimmering blue patterns make it a spectacular sight, and it is often considered one of the most beautiful butterflies in South Asia.
Identification
- Black wings with large, iridescent blue patches on the hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 12–15 cm (4.7–6 in), making it India’s second-largest butterfly
- Hindwings feature blue spots and short tails, with a few red markings on the underside
- Males are more vibrant in color, while females may appear slightly duller
Habitat
The Blue Mormon is commonly found in tropical forests, gardens, and plantations across India and Sri Lanka. It is especially abundant in regions where citrus plants grow.
Behavior
This butterfly is a strong flier, often gliding gracefully among treetops before descending to visit flowers. It is not known to be territorial and is frequently spotted in both wild and cultivated areas.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from ixora, lantana, hibiscus, and other brightly colored flowers. They may also sip minerals from moist soil and rotting organic matter to enhance reproduction and vitality.
23. Tailed Jay (Graphium agamemnon)
The Tailed Jay is a vibrant and fast-flying swallowtail butterfly widely distributed across Asia and Australia. Its bright green spots against a black background and quick, restless flight make it one of the most recognizable butterflies in tropical regions.
Identification
- Black wings with bright green spots scattered across both forewings and hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 8–10 cm (3.1–3.9 in)
- Hindwings have short tails with subtle blue and black markings near the base
- Caterpillars are green with small yellow spots, blending well with foliage
Habitat
This species inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, gardens, and urban areas across India, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia. It thrives in warm, humid environments.
Behavior
Tailed Jays are very active and rarely rest, often seen darting quickly from flower to flower. Unlike many swallowtails, they continue fluttering even while feeding, making them difficult to photograph.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from ixora, lantana, hibiscus, and other tropical flowers. They also visit damp soil and puddles for minerals, which help sustain their high energy levels.
24. Common Jay (Graphium doson)
The Common Jay is a lively and graceful swallowtail butterfly found across South and Southeast Asia. Its striking black wings marked with light blue bands and spots make it easily recognizable as it flits rapidly through gardens and forests.
Identification
- Black wings with a broad light blue band running across forewings and hindwings
- Wingspan ranges from 7–9 cm (2.7–3.5 in)
- Hindwings have short tails with subtle red and blue markings on the underside
- Slender body with rapid wingbeats during flight
Habitat
This butterfly inhabits forests, gardens, and urban areas throughout India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is especially common in moist tropical regions.
Behavior
Common Jays are restless fliers, rarely sitting still for long. They flutter constantly while feeding and are often seen in groups around flowering shrubs. Males gather at damp ground for minerals, while females are more often found around host plants.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, ixora, hibiscus, and jasmine. They also supplement their diet by absorbing minerals from wet soil and puddles.
25. Five-bar Swordtail (Graphium antiphates)
The Five-bar Swordtail is a graceful swallowtail butterfly recognized by its elegant white wings patterned with black stripes and its long, slender tails. It is widely distributed in South and Southeast Asia, where it is admired for its delicate flight and beauty.
Identification
- White to pale cream wings marked with five bold black bars on the forewings
- Wingspan ranges from 7–10 cm (2.7–3.9 in)
- Hindwings have long sword-like tails with touches of blue and orange near the base
- Underside is pale with subtle red spots on the hindwings
Habitat
This species inhabits forests, river valleys, gardens, and open fields across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It prefers sunny areas near water sources.
Behavior
Five-bar Swordtails are agile fliers, often gliding smoothly and then darting rapidly. They are frequently seen visiting flowers and gathering in groups at damp riverbanks or puddles for minerals.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar from lantana, ixora, and other wildflowers. They also sip minerals from moist soil, wet sand, and animal droppings to maintain energy for long flights.
