Midsummer Tiger Swallowtail
Common NameMidsummer Tiger Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio glaucus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)110
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, orange
HabitatForests, woodlands, fields, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantstulip tree, wild cherry, sweetbay magnolia, ash, birch, willow
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are initially dark, resembling bird droppings, then turn green with large false eyespots, pupating into a chrysalis that overwinters.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, yellow and black striped pattern, and the characteristic tails on its hindwings. Males typically exhibit more prominent blue scaling on the hindwings compared to yellow-morph females.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with bright yellow wings boldly marked with black tiger stripes, black borders with yellow spots, and prominent tails on the hindwings adorned with blue and orange accents.
