Fauna
Insect

Southern Birdwing

Troides minos

Also known as Sahyadri Birdwing

Southern birdwings soar majestically above the canopy of the Western Ghats with deep, rhythmic wingbeats that resemble a small bird in flight. Females sport striking golden-yellow hindwings patterned with dark spots, while males display bright yellow and velvety black upper wings. Caterpillars feed on Aristolochia vines, sequestering toxins that render both larvae and adults distasteful to predators.

EndemicLarge WingspanTropical
Southern Birdwing reference1 / 7
(c) Vengolis, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAristolochia indica, Lantana nectar, Ixora nectar
Predators
  • Birds
  • Lizards
  • Spiders
ThreatsDeforestation, habitat fragmentation, and localized loss of host vines.
HabitatsEvergreen and moist deciduous forests, plantations, and tropical gardens of the Western Ghats.
Life spanAdults live 2–6 weeks; full life cycle spans 2–3 months.
Classification
  1. FamilyPapilionidae
  2. SpeciesTroides minos
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observation timing: Look for adults gliding high near forest edges during warm mid-mornings.
  • Nectar gardens: Search flowering shrubs like Ixora and Lantana where adults frequently pause to feed.
  • Larval host check: Examine wild pipevine foliage for large, dark caterpillars with fleshy spines.
Related species
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