Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Image: H. Armstrong Roberts (Public domain)
Common NameEastern Tiger Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio glaucus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, fields, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast and eastern Texas
Host Plantstulip tree, wild cherry, sweetbay magnolia, ash, birch, cottonwood, willow
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with false eyespots, resembling bird droppings when young, and pupate in a chrysalis that can be green or brown, often camouflaged as a twig.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, distinctive yellow and black striped pattern, and the presence of tails on the hindwings. Females can also occur in a dark morph, mimicking the Pipevine Swallowtail.
Description
A large, striking butterfly characterized by its bright yellow wings adorned with bold black tiger-like stripes and prominent tails on its hindwings.
