Zebra Swallowtail
Common NameZebra Swallowtail
Scientific NameProtographium marcellus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, cream
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, open fields, near streams and rivers
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsPawpaw (Asimina species)
Flight PeriodMarch to December
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on pawpaw leaves, hatching into green or dark brown caterpillars that feed on the foliage. The pupae are camouflaged as twigs or leaves.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique black and cream striped pattern, the angular shape of its hindwings (often with tails), and its association with pawpaw trees in eastern North America.
Description
A medium-sized swallowtail butterfly characterized by its striking black and cream zebra-like stripes and distinctive pointed hindwings, often with tails.
