Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)
Male Black Swallowtail with Yellow and Blue Spots
Copyright: Fred Miller
(aka Eastern Black Swallowtail)
This remarkable butterfly is a strong flier that enjoys open areas and ‘hilltopping’. Hilltopping is popular among males in search of females; it allows a greater area to be covered in search of a mate. Males can also be very territorial, chasing other males off their hill. Swallowtails, because they are larger butterflies, commonly feed on taller plants that have the longer-tubed flowers. They are wonderful guests to welcome, and are a pleasure to watch dashing through the garden.
See more photos below to help you identify the stages of the Black Swallowtail life cycle.
Facts And Information
Family: Swallowtails & Parnassians (Papilionidae)
Subfamily: Swallowtail (Papilioninae)
Average Wingspan: 3 1/4 in. to 4 1/4 in.
Habitat: Open areas, hills, gardens
Similar To: Anise Swallowtail, Spicebush Swallowtail
Butterfly Laying Eggs on Fennel
Copyright: Fred Miller
Recently Emerged
Copyright: Fred Miller
Resting on Finger
Copyright: Fred Miller
Female Nectaring on Lantana
Copyright: Fred Miller
Male Resting on Branch
Copyright: Fred Miller
Female Black Swallowtail
Copyright: Patty Bigner
Plants That Attract The Black Swallowtail
Host Plants: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants: (What is this?)
Note: Always check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to make sure a plant will grow in your area.
Black Swallowtail Life Cycle
Yellow Egg on Fennel
Copyright: Fred Miller
Comparing Butterfly Egg to Penny
Copyright: Fred Miller
First Instar
Copyright: Fred Miller
Black Swallowtail Caterpillar
Copyright: Fred Miller
Green Caterpillar
Copyright: Fred Miller
Black Caterpillar
Copyright: Fred Miller
Showing Osmeterium - Defensive Organ
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards
Green-Tan Chrysalis
Copyright: Fred Miller
Butterfly Flight Range
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
