Christmas Swallowtail | Papilio demodocus PUPAE

Often known as the African Swallowtail, or Christmas Swallowtail, Papilo demodocus is a large butterfly native to most of sub-Saharan Africa. Caterpillars feed on plants in the Citrus family, including fruit trees and Choisya, among many others. Young caterpillars are disguised as bird droppings, whilst the final instar is bright green in colour - when threatened, they produce a forked, orange-coloured structure from the head known as the osmeterium. This releases a strange smell and gives the caterpillar the appearance of a small snake, both having the effect of deterring predators. When mature, swallowtail caterpillars produce an upwards-facing pupa, secured to a branch or flat surface with silk. Butterflies typically emerge from their pupae after around 3-4 weeks, however a proportion of each brood seems to go into dormancy unless kept warm and humid. Aside from this, 90% will emerge quickly and breed easily in sunny conditions. This species is enjoyable for all experience levels but also makes an ideal introduction to swallowtails and/or tropical butterflies!

Difficulty - Easy (1/10)

Host plants - Citrus; Choisya; Skimmia; various other related plants

Conditions - Room temperature is sufficient however pupae emerge sooner with warmth

Lifecycle - Continually brooded; pupae capable of diapause