Scarlet Mormon

Family: Knights' butterflies (Papilionidae)

Distribution: Southeast Asia and Australia

Wingspan: Approx 12 - 14cm

Host plant: Citrus (Rutaceae)

Papilio rumanzovia, also known as the Scarlet Mormon, is a large and magnificent butterfly native to the Philippines, but also found in other parts of Southeast Asia.A distinct feature of the species is sexual dimorphism, meaning that males and females look different. The male has black wings with conspicuous red bars on the hindwings, giving the species its English name Scarlet Mormon. The female is more varied in coloring, often with brighter highlights. The butterfly is an active day-flier and feeds on nectar from various flowers.