Magellan Birdwing vs South American Swallowtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Magellan Birdwing South American Swallowtail
Scientific Name Troides magellanus Heraclides thoas
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Papilionidae
Size Wingspan 160-200 mm 100-130 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Orchards
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Philippines, Taiwan Brazil, Argentina, Central America, southern United States
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Magellan Birdwing

A large Philippine birdwing with black forewings and vibrant golden hindwings. It is endemic to the Philippines and parts of Taiwan.

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Did You Know?

It is the largest butterfly found in the Philippines and is protected under Philippine law.

South American Swallowtail

A large swallowtail butterfly with black wings bearing bright yellow band patterns and prominent tail extensions. It is a strong, rapid flier.

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Did You Know?

When threatened, its caterpillar extends a bright orange forked organ called an osmeterium that releases a foul smell.