Ulysses Swallowtail

Papilio ulysses is a swallowtail in the subgenus Achillides. Ulysses Swallowtail and Mountain Blue Butterfly are common names for the same species. [1][2]

Adults have large iridescent blue areas surrounded by black, with black tail extensions on the hindwings. Females are generally duller than males. Beneath, the wings are brown with bluish spots near the hindwing margins. [1][2]

In tropical Queensland, Papilio ulysses inhabits rainforest. Suburban plantings of its larval host Melicope elleryana also provide habitat. [3]

Mature caterpillars are green with blue, green and white spots and a pale green head. Eggs are laid on host leaves, where the larvae feed before pupating. [1][3]

Melicope elleryana is a principal host in Queensland. Other rutaceous hosts include Citrus and Euodia species. [1][2]

Microscopic structures in the blue wing scales reflect blue light. Adjacent black scales absorb light strongly, increasing the visual contrast of the blue fields. [4]

A 2023 phylogenetic revision restored Papilio telegonus and Papilio orsippus as separate species after earlier treatments had placed them within Papilio ulysses. [5]

Keep the enclosure closed and display it in indirect light, away from heat and damp conditions. Handle the frame by its edges and clean only its exterior according to the maker’s instructions.