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Common jay

Common jay

Graphium doson

A species of Swordtails

Graphium doson, the common jay, is a black, tropical papilionid (swallowtail) butterfly with pale blue semi-transparent central wing bands that are formed by large spots. There is a marginal series of smaller spots. The underside of wings is brown with markings similar to upperside but whitish in colour.

General Info About Common jay
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Attributes of Common jay
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
White
Blue
Habitat
forest
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from lantana, ixora, and jatropha species
Larva Food Source
Leaves of annonaceae species, such as annona squamosa, polyalthia longifolia, uvaria species
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common jay is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Common jay 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
Phytophagous
The Common jay feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Common jay
It is widespread and common throughout Southeast Asia. The species is scarce in southern Honshū, Japan.
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Distribution Area of Common jay
Southeast Asia
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Life Cycle of Common jay
Egg Laid on host plants, the eggs of common jay are small and round. Initially the eggs are light-colored but darken as development progresses. This stage is solely for growth and does not involve any locomotion or feeding by the insect itself.
Larva Upon hatching, the caterpillar of common jay continuously feeds on host foliage. Its body elongates, and its color varies, often for camouflage. Molting occurs multiple times, allowing for significant increases in size before transitioning to the next stage.
Pupal The common jay forms a pupa (chrysalis), where substantial transformation occurs. The pupa is typically immobile and may be cryptic or attached to foliage. Inside, the common jay reorganizes its body structures in preparation for its adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common jay's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction and, in some cases, on feeding on nectar or other sources.
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Adult Size of Common jay
7 - 8 cm
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Predators of Common jay Larvae
Birds, rodents, wasps, ants, spiders
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Predators of Adult Common jay
Birds, spiders, mantises, lizards, frogs
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Interesting Facts About Common jay
Despite its delicate appearance, the common jay can release a pungent odor to deter predators when feeling threatened.
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Scientific Classification of Common jay
Tips for Finding Common jay
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Youth Habitat of Common jay
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Common jay
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Common jay
Common jay adults are attracted to various food sources, such as nectar from flowering plants, ripe fruits, or even muddy puddles for nutrients.
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Habitat Preferences of Common jay Through Different Life Stages
Adult common jay butterflies are typically found flitting through open woodlands and along forest edges where nectar-rich flowers are abundant. Caterpillars can be searched for on the leaves of host plants, particularly evergreen and deciduous trees, as they rely on these for sustenance during growth. Meanwhile, the eggs of common jay are often located underneath leaves of their host plants in areas less susceptible to predation and environmental extremes. Pupae can be a challenge to find, as they are generally well camouflaged, yet they are usually attached to plant stems or leaves in the vicinity of the host plants.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common jay
The best time to find common jay is usually during warm, sunny days as they are active when temperatures are favorable for flight.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common jay
Common jay are typically easier to find in weather that is not too windy, rainy, or cold, as these conditions can reduce their activity or force them to take shelter.
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How and Where Can You Find Common jay at Different Life Stages
Egg Common jay eggs are laid on host plants. To find them, identify their specific host plants and inspect the undersides of leaves for small, rounded eggs.
Larva Common jay caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants. Look for chewed leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) to locate them.
Pupal Common jay pupae are usually attached to plants or nearby structures. Search for them in sheltered areas like under ledges or on plant stems by carefully scanning for their camouflaged chrysalises.
Adult Common jay adults can be found flying around host plants, sipping nectar or nutrients. The best approach to finding them is by visiting gardens, meadows, or forest edges with abundant flowers during the daytime.
Are Common jay harmful?
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Usually, the common jay won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Common jay harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Common jay
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Fruit Trees
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Common jay is an avid pollinator, often spotted fluttering from flower to flower, attracted by their vivid colors and distinct shapes. They primarily feed on pollen, which is abundant in plants of the Asteraceae family and fruit trees, making these their preferred habitats for feeding and pollination.
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