Citrus Swallowtail

Papilio demodocus

Citrus Swallowtail, Papilio demodocus, South Nandi Forest, Kenya. Photo © by Michael Plagens

This butterfly was observed along a wet road surface through South Nandi Forest, Kenya, April 2013.

The specimen photographed here was found several kilometers from cultivation where often this butterfly is associated with planted citrus. The green and black caterpillars feed on foliage of orange trees and other citrus. There are wild species belonging to the same family, Rutaceae, that may be the host in South Nandi Forest.

Papilionidae -- Swallowtail Butterfly Family

More Information:


Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 15 November 2013