Eurytides marcellus
Scientific NameEurytides marcellus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, fields, stream banks, and moist areas, particularly where its host plant, the pawpaw, is abundant.
Geographic RangeEastern United States, from southern New England west to eastern Nebraska, and south to Florida and Texas. Also found in parts of southeastern Canada (southern Ontario).
Conservation StatusLeast Concern (LC)
Description
The Zebra Swallowtail is a distinctive butterfly known for its striking black and white striped pattern, reminiscent of a zebra. It has long, slender tails on its hindwings. There are two main seasonal forms: a spring form (form marcellus) which is smaller, whiter, and has shorter tails, and a summer form (form floridensis or lecontei) which is larger, darker, and has longer tails. The underside of the hindwings often features a red streak and a blue spot near the body.
