Black Swallowtail
Image: Elizabeth Simcoe (Public domain)
Common NameBlack Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio polyxenes
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, blue, orange
HabitatOpen fields, meadows, gardens, roadsides, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, extending into parts of the Southwest and Central America
Host Plantsparsley, dill, fennel, carrot, Queen Anne's Lace
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with black bands and yellow spots, possessing an osmeterium for defense. Pupae are chrysalides, either green or brown, and can overwinter in colder regions.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall black coloration, two rows of yellow spots on the forewings (more prominent in males), and a distinct blue band with orange spots on the hindwings, along with the characteristic swallowtail 'tails'.
Description
A large, predominantly black butterfly with a row of yellow spots along the outer margins of the forewings and a prominent band of blue and orange spots on the hindwings, which also feature distinct tails. The ventral side displays more extensive orange and yellow spotting.
