The Crimson Rose Pachliopta hector is a large swallowtail which flutters high in the treetops. It is difficult to photograph this red bodied butterfly, as it never stays for long in the photographable height. I was very lucky to see the mating pair in my vegetable patch.
The crimson Rose feeds on Aristolochia as a catterpillar, and imbibes the toxins. Its red body warns the predators that it is poisonous. Red seems to be the danger signal among butterflies too! The birds avoid the Crimson Rose.
The female Common Mormon, which is not poisonous, imitates the Crimson Rose to protect itself.These butterflies are common in India and Sri Lanka.
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