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Spicebush swallowtail

Spicebush swallowtail

Papilio troilus

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Coastal Spicebush Swallowtail, Green clouded swallowtail

The spicebush swallowtail (Papilio troilus) is a butterfly with an extreme love for plants in the Lauraceae family, such as spicebushes. Their preference is so strong that an experiment proved they would rather die than choose another host. Their two subspecies, *T. troilus *troilus and *T. troilus *ilioneus, differ based on location. The *T. troilus *ilioneus has more bluish spots and prefers redbay and swampbay plants.

General Info About Spicebush swallowtail
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Attributes of Spicebush swallowtail
Colors
Black
White
Blue
Orange
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Spicebush swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Spicebush 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 Spicebush 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 Spicebush swallowtail
It is found in North America.
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Distribution Area of Spicebush swallowtail
North America
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Appearance of Spicebush swallowtail
Typically, the wingspan of a spicebush swallowtail ranges from 8 - 10 cm. Adults are primarily black/brown in color, with a trademark green-blue (male) or bright blue (female) splotch in the shape of a half moon on the hindwings. The forewing has a border of cream-colored, oval spots. In females, the orange spot at the base of the wings will turn a greenish-white shade in summer, but not the spring. The eggs of the spicebush swallowtail are greenish white in color, are fairly large. The larvae in the early stages are dark brown.
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How to Identify Spicebush swallowtail?

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Life Cycle of Spicebush swallowtail
Egg The egg of spicebush swallowtail marks the beginning of the life cycle. Tiny and usually laid on the host plant, eggs are the developmental phase where the basic form of spicebush swallowtail starts its life, characterized by a hard protective casing sheltering the embryonic spicebush swallowtail.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of spicebush swallowtail emerges. This stage is defined by rapid growth and a primary focus on feeding. Larvae are worm-like, lacking developed wings, and often have distinct color patterns that serve as both camouflage and warning.
Pupal Transitioning into the pupal stage, spicebush swallowtail ceases feeding and undergoes transformation within a chrysalis. This stage is marked by significant tissue reorganization, as larval structures break down and the adult form develops internally.
Adult Emerging from the chrysalis, the adult spicebush swallowtail’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction and dispersal.
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Adult Size of Spicebush swallowtail
Wingspan 10 - 13 cm
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Predators of Spicebush swallowtail Larvae
Rodents, birds, insects, arachnids
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Predators of Adult Spicebush swallowtail
Birds, spiders, mammals, reptiles
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Scientific Classification of Spicebush swallowtail
Tips for Finding Spicebush swallowtail
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How Can You Attract Spicebush swallowtail
Due to the eating habits of spicebush swallowtail, people might use host plants such as Wild Cherry and Tulip Trees as lures for the caterpillar stage because the larvae are herbivorous and feed on the leaves. As for adults, sweet-smelling and nectar-rich flowers can act as natural attractants.
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Habitat Preferences of Spicebush swallowtail Through Different Life Stages
To observe the stages of spicebush swallowtail, one should focus on different habitats. The eggs are typically found on the underside of leaves of host plants, particularly those of the Laurel family. Caterpillars reside mainly on the host plants they hatched on, feeding and growing there. For the pupal stage, search may require inspecting the underside of leaves or branches where they camouflage as part of the plant. Adults, which are butterflies, are often observed in open fields, gardens, or forest edges where they can access nectar from a variety of flowers. A keen observer must carefully examine these respective habitats to witness each stage of spicebush swallowtail's life.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Spicebush swallowtail
The best time to look for adult spicebush swallowtail is on warm, sunny days, typically mid-morning to early afternoon when the sun is high, as this is when butterflies are most active. For finding eggs or caterpillars, timing should be based on the breeding season when they are likely laid on host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Spicebush swallowtail
Spicebush swallowtail will be most active in fair weather conditions since extreme temperatures, heavy rain, or strong winds can diminish their activity or force them into hiding for protection.
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How and Where Can You Find Spicebush swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Spicebush swallowtail eggs are tiny, round, and often found on the underside of leaves of the host plants. Check the leaves of host plants carefully on both sides to spot these eggs.
Larva Spicebush swallowtail larvae, or caterpillars, are predominantly green with transverse black stripes and yellow spots. They are typically found feeding on leaves of the host plants. Look for signs of chewing on the edges of leaves and inspect them to find the larvae.
Pupal Spicebush swallowtail chrysalises are camouflaged and can look like a leaf or twig. They are often hidden in foliage or on the ground near the host plants. Search around the base of host plants and on branches for these cryptic pupae.
Adult Spicebush swallowtail adult butterflies are large and predominantly black with yellow and blue markings and a distinctive swallowtail. They can be found feeding on nectar from a variety of flowers or sipping moisture from puddles. Locate flowers that are in full bloom under sunny conditions, or look for wet areas where butterflies may be drinking.
Are Spicebush swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the spicebush 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 Spicebush 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 Spicebush 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
Spicebush swallowtail are known for their intricate interdependence with flowers. They are attracted to both the vivid colors and the elaborate shapes of certain blooms. Pollination occurs as spicebush swallowtail inadvertently brush against the flower's reproductive organs while feeding on pollen, thus transferring pollen from one flower to another.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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