New Zealand Red Admiral vs Swallowtail Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Red Admiral | Swallowtail Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Vanessa gonerilla | Papilio machaon |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 50-60 mm wingspan | 65-86 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Underground |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Red Admiral
An endemic New Zealand butterfly with striking red and black wing patterns. It is found throughout both main islands in bush margins and gardens. The larvae feed exclusively on native stinging nettle (ongaonga).
Did You Know?
Unlike most butterflies, the New Zealand red admiral overwinters as an adult and can sometimes be seen flying on warm winter days.
Swallowtail Butterfly
Elegant butterfly with yellow wings marked with black veins and blue-red eyespots on hindwings. The tail extensions on hindwings divert predator attacks from the body.
Did You Know?
Swallowtail caterpillars have a hidden orange forked organ called an osmeterium that they pop out from behind their head when threatened, releasing a foul smell.