Hong Kong Butterflies 22

The Common Rose ( Pachliopta aristolochiae  紅珠鳳蝶) is a swallowtail butterfly belonging to the genus Pachliopta, the roses, or red-bodied swallowtails.

With a wingspan of 9.0 – 10.0 cm the Common Rose is black with white and red spots. Hind wings have tails. Its striking red body and the bright red marks on the wings make it stand out not only in its environment but also in the swallowtail family. The pretty colouration is a warning sign which indicates “poison” to its predators.

This common rose was spotted yesterday morning in the Hong Kong Park.