Ruby Spotted Swallowtail
by KJ Swan
Title
Ruby Spotted Swallowtail
Artist
KJ Swan
Medium
Photograph
Description
From the Texas-Mexican border to Argentina, velvety-black wings (with deep red spots and tiny white patches) grace the skies. The Ruby Spotted Swallowtail is drawn to multiple citrus trees where it lays its eggs so their caterpillars can chomp on leaves.
Ruby-spotted swallowtails (Papilio anchisiades idaeus) are naturally found in rain-forests, orchards and suburban zones. Here only to procreate, they lay about 50 smelly eggs on a citrus tree. (Yale Scientists believe the disagreeable scent discourages ants and other predators.) The beautiful adults complete their natural lifespan in less than a month.
(A striking butterfly displays its rich black wings adorned with vivid pink patches. Perched delicately on light-colored foliage, the insect's intricate details are highlighted against a blurred background. The composition draws attention to the symmetry and elegance of the butterfly's form.)
Uploaded
August 21st, 2025
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