Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Image: Dsdugan (CC0)
Common NameEastern Tiger Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio glaucus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)110
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, orange
HabitatDeciduous forests, forest edges, open woodlands, fields, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast and west to the Great Plains
Host Plantswild cherry, sweetbay magnolia, tulip tree, ash, birch
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants; larvae are initially dark, then turn green with false eyespots. Pupae (chrysalis) can be green or brown and often overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the large size, yellow and black striped pattern, and prominent tails on the hindwings. Yellow females typically have more extensive blue on the hindwings than males.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with bright yellow wings marked by bold black 'tiger' stripes. The hindwings feature a scalloped margin with a row of blue spots and often orange spots.
