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Eastern tiger swallowtail

Eastern tiger swallowtail

Papilio glaucus

A species of Swallowtails

Eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is among the most recognizable butterflies in the eastern United States, where it inhabits a variety of habitats. This species is diurnal and usually solitary, preferring to fly high above the ground until the time comes to mate. Caterpillars display eyespots to deter birds in between some molting phases.

General Info About Eastern tiger swallowtail
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Attributes of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Colors
Black
Yellow
Blue
Habitat
deciduous forest; woodland; field; river; creek; roadside; garden; urban park; city yard
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers of wild bergamot, phlox, ironweed, butterfly bush, honeysuckle
Larva Food Source
Leaves of wild cherry, tulip tree, sweet bay magnolia, birch, aspen
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Eastern 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.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Appearance of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Papilio glaucus has a wingspan measuring 8 - 14 cm. The male is yellow with four black "tiger stripes" on each forewing. The outer edge of the forewing is black with a row of yellow spots. The postmedian area of the hindwing is black with yellow spots along the margin. The inner margin of the hindwing has small red and blue spots. Females may be either yellow or black, making them dimorphic. The yellow morph differs from the male in having a blue postmedian area on the dorsal hindwing. The caterpillar will turn brown prior to pupating. It will reach a length of 6 cm. The chrysalis varies from a whitish color to dark brown.
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How to Identify Eastern tiger swallowtail?

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Life Cycle of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Egg The eastern tiger swallowtail begins life as a tiny, spherical egg. Often laid on the underside of leaves, the egg’s color can vary, sometimes matching the plant to evade predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva or caterpillar of the eastern tiger swallowtail emerges, characterized by its voracious appetite for leaves. The caterpillar frequently molts, growing larger and sometimes changing patterns with each stage.
Pupal The eastern tiger swallowtail larva then enters the pupal stage, forming a chrysalis. During this time, the eastern tiger swallowtail undergoes a remarkable transformation as its body completely reorganizes. The pupa may exhibit cryptic coloration.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult eastern tiger swallowtail displays vibrant wings and a slender body. Physiological changes include the development of reproductive organs and the shift from eating leaves to sipping nectar.
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Adult Size of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Wingspan 10 - 15 cm
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Predators of Eastern tiger swallowtail Larvae
Ants, wasps, spiders, birds
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Predators of Adult Eastern tiger swallowtail
Birds, small mammals, spiders, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Eastern tiger swallowtail
Eastern tiger swallowtail can taste with its feet, a feature that enables it to find suitable host plants for laying eggs quickly and efficiently.
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Scientific Classification of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Tips for Finding Eastern tiger swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Eastern tiger swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Eastern tiger swallowtail Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of eastern tiger swallowtail are often found singly on the leaves of host plants, such as tulip trees and various magnolias. Caterpillars reside on these host plants, camouflaged among the foliage. As they mature, they may also be found on nearby stems. To observe the pupae of eastern tiger swallowtail, search the understory and lower branches of trees and shrubs, where they may be attached discretely during metamorphosis. Adults are widely seen in deciduous woodlands, forest edges, meadows, and even gardens, where they visit flowers for nectar. When seeking adults, look in areas with abundant flowering plants.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Eastern tiger swallowtail
The ideal time to find the eastern tiger swallowtail typically ranges from late spring to early fall when temperatures are warmer and the creatures are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Eastern tiger swallowtail
Sunny and calm weather conditions are best when searching for the eastern tiger swallowtail, as they are more likely to be flying and visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Eastern tiger swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Eastern tiger swallowtail eggs are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the leaves of host plants, looking for tiny, spherical or oblong structures.
Larva Eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillars can be found on or near host plants. Search for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and look for the caterpillars' distinct green, black, and yellow striping.
Pupal Eastern tiger swallowtail chrysalises are camouflaged and can be found attached to tree trunks, branches, or sheltered areas near the ground. They should be approached with care to avoid disturbing the metamorphosis process.
Adult Adult eastern tiger swallowtail are most commonly found near nectar-rich flowers, in grassy fields, or open woodlands. They can be located by quietly walking and scanning for their bright yellow wings with black tiger-striping patterns.
Are Eastern tiger swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the eastern 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 Eastern 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 Eastern tiger swallowtail
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Fabaceae
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Eastern tiger swallowtail actively seeks out flowers, particularly from Asteraceae and Fabaceae families, attracted by their vibrant colors and enticing aromas. They feed on pollen, inadvertently collecting and transferring it between flowers, thus playing a vital role in the ecosystem.
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