Atrophaneura semperi showing the alien-like eyes and strap-shaped proboscis

Queen of the Philippines. This stately butterfly is endemic to the Philippines where it is now threatened. This species is related to the giant birdwings of Papua New Guinea. It has a slow deliberate flight and looks almost like it should stall in mid air. It is mimicked by the Scarlet Swallowtail which lacks the red head of this species. Semperi is rarely seen in butterfly display.

Name: Semperi

Latin: Atrophaneura semperi

Family: Papilionidae

Origin: The Philippines

Food plant: Birthwort Family

thumbnail for Atrophaneura semperi underside
thumbnail for male Atrophaneura semperi
thumbnail for Atrophaneura semperi head