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Formosan swallowtail

Formosan swallowtail

Papilio thaiwanus

A species of Swallowtails

Papilio thaiwanus, the Formosan swallowtail, is a butterfly in the swallowtail family. It is endemic to Taiwan. The larva feeds on Toddalia asiatica, Zanthoxylum ailanthoides, and Cinnamomum camphora.

General Info About Formosan swallowtail
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Attributes of Formosan swallowtail
Colors
Black
Red
White
Blue
Orange
Habitat
Low altitude mountain
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from lantana, buddleia, cosmos, zinnia, milkweed
Larva Food Source
Citrus leaves, lime plant leaves, rue family plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Formosan swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Predators of Formosan swallowtail Larvae
Birds, wasps, spiders, ants
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Predators of Adult Formosan swallowtail
Birds, spiders, mantis, dragonflies
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Interesting Facts About Formosan swallowtail
The formosan swallowtail can taste with its feet, allowing it to assess suitable host plants for laying eggs just by standing on them.
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Scientific Classification of Formosan swallowtail
Tips for Finding Formosan swallowtail
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How Can You Attract Formosan swallowtail
Adult formosan swallowtail are attracted to nectar-rich flowers, so setting up feeders with sugar water or placing nectar plants in a garden can serve as a trap food.
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Habitat Preferences of Formosan swallowtail Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of formosan swallowtail are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. Once hatched, the caterpillars can be found voraciously feeding on these leaves, especially preferring the fresh new growth. As formosan swallowtail pupates, the chrysalis is often formed on sturdier parts of the plant like branches or the trunk, often masquerading as part of the plant itself to avoid predation. In their final stage as adults, formosan swallowtail frequent flower-rich areas where nectar is abundant, as well as sunny, open spaces where they can mate and bask in the sun.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Formosan swallowtail
The most suitable time to find formosan swallowtail depends on its life cycle stages. For larvae, it is during their feeding period before pupating. Adults are usually active during sunny, warm parts of the day, particularly in the morning and early afternoon.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Formosan swallowtail
Dry and warm weather is typically the most suitable for finding formosan swallowtail as they are more active and visible when the sun is out, and flowers are in bloom.
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How and Where Can You Find Formosan swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Formosan swallowtail eggs are often found on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, examine the host plants closely, especially young, tender leaves for small, round, or ovate eggs.
Larva Formosan swallowtail larvae or caterpillars can be found by inspecting the host plants they feed on, looking for signs of feeding such as chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Formosan swallowtail pupae are generally camouflaged and can be attached to plant stems or leaves, or nestled in leaf litter. They can be found by carefully examining the probable pupation sites near the larval food sources.
Adult Adult formosan swallowtail are most visible when they are feeding on nectar or basking in the sun. Visiting gardens, meadows, or other areas with blooming flowers during warm, sunny days increases the likelihood of sightings.
Are Formosan swallowtail harmful?
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Are Formosan 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 Formosan swallowtail
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Formosan swallowtail is known to flutter around flowers, sipping nectar for sustenance. During these visits, pollen inadvertently sticks to its body and is subsequently transferred from one blossom to another, aiding in the cross-pollination of various plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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