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Pipevine Swallowtail

Pipevine Swallowtail

Battus philenor

A species of Battus, Also known as Northern Pipevine Swallowtail

The pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor) is an insect that is protected globally but is considered a species of special concern in the northern part of their range in Michigan. The name pipevine Swallowtail comes from the common plants that they are hosts of. They are also known as the blue swallowtail due to their brilliant, blue color.

General Info About Pipevine Swallowtail
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Attributes of Pipevine Swallowtail
Colors
Black
White
Blue
Orange
Habitat
warmer, more temperate environment; grassland; woodland; garden; pipevine
Adult Food Sources
Lantana spp., asclepias spp., echinacea spp., thistle spp., verbena spp.
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Pipevine Swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Pipevine Swallowtail is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Pipevine Swallowtail feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Pipevine Swallowtail
It is a swallowtail butterfly found in North America and Central America.
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Life Cycle of Pipevine Swallowtail
Egg The egg lays dormant until conditions are favorable. The eggs are small, spherical, and vary in color. They are laid on host plants and serve as the incubation phase for the larva to develop.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of pipevine Swallowtail is predominantly a feeding stage, with a segmented body that molts several times, growing considerably with each stage. Its colors may serve as camouflage or warning.
Pupal The larva transforms into a pupa, marking a period of reorganization. The pupal phase is immobile and can be seen as a hard chrysalis. Inside, pipevine Swallowtail undergoes dramatic transformation.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult pipevine Swallowtail’s development is marked by the presence of vibrant colors and patterns on its wings. The body is fully formed, and the adult focuses on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Pipevine Swallowtail
Wingspan 8 - 12 cm
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Predators of Pipevine Swallowtail Larvae
Ants, spiders, wasps, birds
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Predators of Adult Pipevine Swallowtail
Birds, mammals, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Pipevine Swallowtail
Unlike most, pipevine Swallowtail employs a unique defense by excreting a foul-smelling chemical from its osmeterium to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Pipevine Swallowtail
Tips for Finding Pipevine Swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Pipevine Swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Pipevine Swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pipevine Swallowtail
The best time to find adult pipevine Swallowtail is during sunny days when temperatures are warm, typically in the morning or late afternoon when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pipevine Swallowtail
Weather conditions that are ideal for finding pipevine Swallowtail include warm to mild temperatures, low winds, and no rain. Pipevine Swallowtail may be less active or harder to spot during cold, windy, or rainy conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Pipevine Swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Pipevine Swallowtail eggs are typically laid on the host plants. To find them, check the undersides of leaves of known host plants for small spherical or oval eggs.
Larva Pipevine Swallowtail larva can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and inspect both sides of the leaves.
Pupal Pipevine Swallowtail pupae often attach themselves to stems or leaves of plants, or even nearby structures. Search for chrysalises by examining the host plants and surrounding areas where the larva was last seen.
Adult Adult pipevine Swallowtail can be found in habitats rich in flowers, as they frequently visit these plants for nectar. Look for them in gardens, meadows, and along the edges of forests or woodlands where host plants are abundant.
Are Pipevine Swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the pipevine Swallowtail won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Pipevine Swallowtail harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Pipevine Swallowtail
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Pipevine Swallowtail is a fascinating pollinator, often spotted flitting from flower to flower. Lured by the vibrant colors and unique shapes of flowers, it primarily feeds on nectar, inadvertently collecting and transferring pollen in the process. This inadvertent pollen transport is essential for the reproduction of various plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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