Released 2009-10-03

Pink Rose Swallowtail Butterfly, Pachliopta kotzebuea

A native of tropical southeast Asia, this butterfly's bright body coloration is not simply for show: it is a warning to birds and other predators that this particular meal might be one to skip. As a larva, the Pachliopta kotzebuea feeds on poisonous plants. It internalizes the poisons, remaining itself unaffected by them, but making itself poisonous to those who might eat it. In case the coloration is not enough of a warning, this butterfly also emits a foul-smelling substance when handled.

This is a limited edition photograph with a total of 250 photos printed across all sizes, as noted