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Ulysses butterfly

Ulysses butterfly

Papilio ulysses

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Blue emperor, Blue mountain swallowtail

The stunning ulysses butterfly can be easily spotted among flowers in gardens and forests due to the bright blue coloring of its wings. Often found in Oceania, it has become a symbol to draw people to visit Queensland, Australia. Its name, "Ulysses," is taken from the hero of the Greek poet Homer's Odyssey, albeit the Roman version.

General Info About Ulysses butterfly
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Attributes of Ulysses butterfly
Adult Food Sources
Hibiscus, bougainvillea, ixora, saraca asoca, lantana
Larva Food Source
Aristolochia tagala, aristolochia indica, pararistolochia praevenosa, aristolochia acuminata, aristolochia deltantha
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Ulysses butterfly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Ulysses butterfly 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 Ulysses butterfly 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
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Species Status of Ulysses butterfly
The Ulysses butterfly inhabits tropical rainforest areas and suburban gardens. The Australian government requires breeders to obtain permits, although the species is not endangered. In the past, this butterfly had been threatened but planting pink flowered doughwood has increased its numbers. Reduction in the number of the Euodia trees, a tree heavily used for laying eggs and for leaves eaten by caterpillars, may threaten the survival of this butterfly. Females favour small trees up to 2 metres tall to lay their eggs.
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Predators of Ulysses butterfly Larvae
Ants, wasps, birds, spiders
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Predators of Adult Ulysses butterfly
Birds, spiders, mammals
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Interesting Facts About Ulysses butterfly
Ulysses butterfly can rapidly flap their wings to create an ultraviolet light spectrum that confuses predators.
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Scientific Classification of Ulysses butterfly
Tips for Finding Ulysses butterfly
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Youth Habitat of Ulysses butterfly
Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Ulysses butterfly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of ulysses butterfly are often laid on the leaves of their host plants, such as species of the genus Citrus. Once hatched, the caterpillars can be found on or near these plants, consuming the leaves voraciously. The pupae typically attach themselves to stems or leaves and can sometimes be found on nearby structures for pupation. To locate the various stages, focus on searching the foliage of host plants for eggs and caterpillars, and check surrounding structures and the plants themselves for pupae. When seeking adults, open areas near host plants, particularly where flowers are abundant, since adults will be foraging for nectar.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Ulysses butterfly
The suitable time for finding ulysses butterfly varies depending on the life stage. Adult ulysses butterfly are typically most active on sunny days and can be found during the daytime when they are out for feeding and mating. Meanwhile, locating eggs, larvae, or pupae is more consistent, as their presence is not tied to specific times of day.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Ulysses butterfly
Adult ulysses butterfly are more commonly seen in warm, sunny weather when they can easily regulate their body temperature for flight. Wet or overly windy conditions are less ideal for finding adults. However, eggs, larvae, and pupae stages can be observed regardless of the weather, although extreme conditions might affect their survival.
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How and Where Can You Find Ulysses butterfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of ulysses butterfly are usually laid on the underside of leaves of host plants. To find them, carefully inspect the preferred food plants for small, spherical eggs, which may vary in color.
Larva Ulysses butterfly larvae (caterpillars) can be found on or near their host plants, often on the underside of leaves to avoid predators. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and check both broad leaves and stems for caterpillars.
Pupal To find ulysses butterfly in its pupal stage, search around the host plants for chrysalides, which may be camouflaged. They usually attach themselves to stems, leaves, or even nearby structures as they transition to adults.
Adult Ulysses butterfly adults are highly mobile and visible during daylight hours. They can be found in gardens, meadows, or forests where they feed on nectar. Observing flowering plants, especially those native to the area, is a good method for spotting adult ulysses butterfly.
Are Ulysses butterfly harmful?
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Are Ulysses butterfly harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Ulysses butterfly
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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
Prefer Plant Type
Aristolochia
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Ulysses butterfly engages in pollination primarily due to its quest for nourishment. Attracted by the vibrant colors and unique shapes of flowers, ulysses butterfly inadvertently transfers pollen while seeking out its food source. The process is integral to the reproductive success of plants and the survival of ulysses butterfly.
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