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Chinese windmill

Chinese windmill

Byasa alcinous

A species of Byasa

Adorned with wings that showcase a mesmerizing canvas of black and iridescent blue, chinese windmill flutters through temperate forests and grassland biomes. The undersides of its wings reveal a mottled pattern of grey and white, thought to offer camouflage among foliage. As a caterpillar, it is equally impressive with a specialized diet primarily consisting of Aristolochia plant species, but this diet diverges greatly once it transforms, with the adult preferring the nectar of a varied bouquet of flora.

General Info About Chinese windmill
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Attributes of Chinese windmill
Colors
Black
Red
Pink
Habitat
Byasa alcinous is present in mixed broadleaved forests.
Adult Food Sources
Lantana, buddleja, ixora, canna, hibiscus
Larva Food Source
Aristolochia debilis, aristolochia kaempferi, aristolochia shimadai, aristolochia kankauensis, aristolochia tagala
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Chinese windmill is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Distribution Area of Chinese windmill
This species can be found in the Asian part of the Palaearctic realm and partially in the Indomalayan realm, from Bhutan, and eastern China to the southern Ussuri region, Korea and Japan.
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Predators of Adult Chinese windmill
Birds, spiders, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Chinese windmill
Despite their delicate appearance, chinese windmill caterpillars have a unique defense mechanism where they emit a foul odor to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Chinese windmill
Tips for Finding Chinese windmill
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Youth Habitat of Chinese windmill
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Chinese windmill
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Temperate regions, Shrubby areas, Streamsides
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How Can You Attract Chinese windmill
Adult chinese windmill are typically attracted to brightly colored flowers with nectar, while caterpillar stages might be found on or near their host plants which they feed on. Using artificial nectar feeders or planting host plants in a garden can attract them.
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Habitat Preferences of Chinese windmill Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of chinese windmill are typically found on the underside of host plant leaves, offering protection and immediate food source upon hatching. Caterpillars can be located on or near host plants, often feeding on the leaves. Pupae might be harder to spot as they blend into the environment, attaching to twigs or leaves. Adult chinese windmill are frequently found in flower-rich habitats where they feed on nectar. Searching for caterpillars or pupae would require examining host plants closely, while observing adults would involve visiting flowering gardens or meadows during warm, sunny days when they are most active.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Chinese windmill
The suitable time to find adult chinese windmill is usually during warmer months of the year when they are most active, typically on sunny days as they require warmth to fly. Early morning is often good for spotting them resting with wings open to bask in the sun. Caterpillars can be found throughout the growing season of the host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Chinese windmill
Adult chinese windmill prefer warm, dry, and sunny weather for flying and feeding. Wet, windy, or cold conditions are less ideal as chinese windmill are less active and may be hiding in vegetation or crevices. To find eggs or larvae, however, weather is less critical as they are more stationary and often attached to plants.
Are Chinese windmill harmful?
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Are Chinese windmill harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Chinese windmill
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Chinese windmill pollinates flowers mostly by chance while seeking nectar. This bright-colored insect inadvertently carries pollen on its body from one flower to another, hence assisting in plant reproduction. Due to its feeding pattern, chinese windmill has a non-selective relationship with many flowering plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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