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Canadian tiger swallowtail

Canadian tiger swallowtail

Papilio canadensis

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Eastern tiger swallowtail

The canadian tiger swallowtail (Papilio canadensis) is a beautiful insect that has earned its name by resembling tiger stripes. They are one of the most popular species when it comes to puddling, which involves butterflies splashing around in mud puddles in an attempt to get nutrients. When mothers lay their eggs, they will fold leave around them as a protective and edible shell, making them great parents.

General Info About Canadian tiger swallowtail
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Attributes of Canadian tiger swallowtail
Colors
Black
Yellow
Blue
Habitat
woodland edge; puddle
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from solidago (goldenrod), flower nectar from thistle, flower nectar from aster, flower nectar from phlox, flower nectar from milkweed
Larva Food Source
Leaves of prunus trees, leaves of populus trees, leaves of crataegus trees, leaves of malus trees, leaves of salix trees
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Canadian tiger swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Canadian tiger 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 Canadian tiger 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.
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Species Status of Canadian tiger swallowtail
It is found in most provinces and territories in Canada. It has not been reported from Labrador, but has been seen in western Newfoundland. It is seen in the northern third of the United States.
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Life Cycle of Canadian tiger swallowtail
Egg The canadian tiger swallowtail begins as an egg, often oval-shaped and tiny. Initially, the color can be pale or brightly colored, camouflaged or conspicuous, depending on the species.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva or caterpillar is small and primarily focused on feeding. As it grows, it sheds its skin multiple times. Color and patterns vary but generally change to optimize camouflage.
Pupal The canadian tiger swallowtail in its pupal stage, also known as a chrysalis, is immobile and undergoes a radical transformation. The color often blends with the environment to avoid predation.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult canadian tiger swallowtail’s development is characterized by brightly colored wings and fully formed reproductive organs. At this stage, the canadian tiger swallowtail is mobile, focused on reproduction and nectar feeding.
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Adult Size of Canadian tiger swallowtail
5 - 8 cm
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Predators of Canadian tiger swallowtail Larvae
Birds, mantises, spiders, wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Canadian tiger swallowtail
Birds, spiders, dragonflies, mantises, robber flies
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Interesting Facts About Canadian tiger swallowtail
The canadian tiger swallowtail possesses a remarkable ability to produce two different generations in one year, each visually distinct to adapt to seasonal changes.
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Scientific Classification of Canadian tiger swallowtail
Tips for Finding Canadian tiger swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Canadian tiger swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Canadian tiger swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas, Meadows
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When is the Best Time to Observe Canadian tiger swallowtail
The ideal time to find adult canadian tiger swallowtail is on warm, sunny days, typically mid-morning to early afternoon, when they are most active. For finding eggs or larvae, any time of day is suitable, provided the weather is fair.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Canadian tiger swallowtail
Warm, dry, and sunny conditions are best as canadian tiger swallowtail are more active and likely to be out feeding or mating in such weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Canadian tiger swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Canadian tiger swallowtail eggs are tiny and found on the host plants, especially on the undersides of leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves of known host plants for small, spherical or spindle-shaped objects.
Larva Canadian tiger swallowtail caterpillars are larger and feed on specific host plants. Look for partially eaten leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) around the host plant. Canadian tiger swallowtail caterpillars may also have distinct patterns or colors for identification.
Pupal Canadian tiger swallowtail chrysalides blend in with their surroundings and can be attached to plant stems or leaves, or be on the ground among debris. Finding them requires a thorough search of potential pupation sites, especially near areas where caterpillars were previously found.
Adult Canadian tiger swallowtail adults are butterflies that can often be found near flowering plants while feeding on nectar. To locate them, visiting gardens, meadows, or natural areas with abundant flowers during warm, sunny weather will increase chances of sightings.
Are Canadian tiger swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the canadian tiger 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 Canadian tiger 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 Canadian tiger swallowtail
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Canadian tiger swallowtail, with its impressive wings, is often seen fluttering from flower to flower. Not only do they add beauty to the environment, but they also play a crucial role in pollination, moving pollen as they consume it directly for sustenance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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