Thoas Swallowtail
Common NameThoas Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio thoas
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)100
Primary Colorsblack, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, citrus groves
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (stray), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsCitrus, Zanthoxylum, Ptelea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, summer to fall in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Caterpillars are cryptic, resembling bird droppings in early instars, later becoming green with brown markings. The chrysalis is typically green or brown, camouflaged to blend with its surroundings.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, the prominent yellow band across its black wings, and the long, slender tails on its hindwings. Small orange and blue spots are often visible near the tails on the hindwings.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with black wings featuring a broad, bright yellow band across both forewings and hindwings, and a row of yellow spots along the outer margins. The hindwings possess prominent tails.
