Papilio cresphontes
Scientific NamePapilio cresphontes
FamilyPapilionidae
Host PlantsCitrus species (e.g., orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit), Prickly ash (Zanthoxylum americanum), Common rue (Ruta graveolens), Hercules' club (Zanthoxylum clava-herculis)
Conservation StatusCommon and widespread; not considered endangered.
Description
The Giant Swallowtail, Papilio cresphontes, is the largest butterfly in North America. It is characterized by its striking black wings with a prominent band of bright yellow spots across both forewings and hindwings, and distinctive 'tails' on its hindwings. The underside is predominantly yellow with black markings. Its larvae are often referred to as 'orange dogs' due to their feeding habits on citrus plants.
