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Indra swallowtail

Indra swallowtail

Papilio indra

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Edwards' swallowtail, Short-tailed black swallowtail

The Indra swallowtail is a black swallowtail similar in coloration to the black swallowtail and the short-tailed swallowtail. It has very short tails and has dark blue crescents on the topside of the hindwing.

General Info About Indra swallowtail
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Attributes of Indra swallowtail
Colors
Black
White
Blue
Habitat
This butterfly may be found in rugged, arid, or mountainous countrysides.
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from a variety of flowers, lantana, echinacea, verbena, zinnia
Larva Food Source
Leaves of plants in the genus cymopterus, other apiaceae family plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Indra swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Indra swallowtail
Uncommon species is widespread
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Distribution Area of Indra swallowtail
Canada, United States
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Life Cycle of Indra swallowtail
Egg The egg of indra swallowtail is a small, round, typically colorful object laid by the female. It provides protection and nutrition to the developing embryo. Size, color, and shape vary, but they are generally minuscule and discreet to avoid predation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva or caterpillar of indra swallowtail rapidly consumes foliage, rapidly growing in size. This stage is characterized by molting, with the caterpillar showing different patterns and colors through successive instars.
Pupal During the pupa stage, indra swallowtail encapsulates itself in a chrysalis. This is a period of intense transformation where body structures are broken down and reorganized. The chrysalis can exhibit camouflage or deterrent patterns.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult indra swallowtail’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.
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Interesting Facts About Indra swallowtail
Indra swallowtail can allude predators by mimicking the appearance of a leaf, right down to the vein-like patterns on their wings.
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Scientific Classification of Indra swallowtail
Tips for Finding Indra swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Indra swallowtail
Deserts and Arid Regions, Mountains and Alpine Regions
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Adult Habitat of Indra swallowtail
Deserts and Arid Regions, Mountains and Alpine Regions, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Savannas
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How Can You Attract Indra swallowtail
Adult indra swallowtail are attracted to various types of nectar-producing flowers due to their feeding habits, while caterpillars can be found on host plants specific to their dietary requirements.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Indra swallowtail
Clear, dry weather with little to no wind is ideal to find indra swallowtail, as rain can drive them to take shelter and high winds inhibit their flight.
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How and Where Can You Find Indra swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Locate the eggs of indra swallowtail by identifying their host plants. Their eggs are often laid singly on the underside of leaves, so inspect them closely for tiny, spherical or cylindrical objects that could be indra swallowtail eggs.
Larva The caterpillars of indra swallowtail can be found on their host plants, where they feed and grow. Look for chewed leaves and caterpillar frass (droppings) to find them. Indra swallowtail caterpillars may have distinctive markings or colorations that can assist with identification.
Pupal Indra swallowtail pupae are typically found in sheltered areas near their host plants. You might find them attached to stems, leaves, or other structures within a close radius of their food source, camouflaged as they undergo metamorphosis.
Adult Adult indra swallowtail are most visible when feeding on the nectar of flowers or during flight. To find them, visit flower-rich habitats during suitable weather conditions and look for the characteristic flight patterns typical of indra swallowtail
Are Indra swallowtail harmful?
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Are Indra swallowtail harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Indra swallowtail
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Indra swallowtail serves as a pollinator when fluttering from flower to flower, attracted by bright colors and distinctive shapes. While primarily feeding on nectar, inadvertent pollen transfer occurs, contributing to cross-pollination and playing a subtle, yet vital role in the ecosystems they inhabit.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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