Japanese Swallowtail vs Kamehameha Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Swallowtail | Kamehameha Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Papilio xuthus | Vanessa tameamea |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | Wingspan 70-90 mm | 60-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Forests |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan | Hawaii |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Japanese Swallowtail
A common Asian swallowtail with pale yellow wings striped with black tiger-like bands. It is one of the most frequently seen butterflies in Japanese gardens.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillars have a forked osmeterium that emits a foul smell to deter birds and wasps.
Kamehameha Butterfly
Hawaii's state insect, a beautiful orange-and-black butterfly endemic to the islands. It is one of only two butterfly species native to Hawaii.
Did You Know?
It was designated Hawaii's state insect in 2009 and is named after the Hawaiian royal dynasty.