Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Image: Country Life (USA) (Public domain)
Common NameEastern Tiger Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio glaucus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)110
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, red
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, fields, gardens, urban parks
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantswild cherry, sweetbay magnolia, tulip tree, ash, birch
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants, larvae are green with false eyespots, and pupation occurs in a chrysalis, typically with 2-3 broods annually.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, distinctive yellow and black striped pattern, and long, sword-like tails on the hindwings. Females can also be dark morphs.
Description
A large, iconic butterfly with bright yellow wings adorned with bold black tiger stripes, prominent tails, and blue and red spots on the hindwings.
