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Anise swallowtail

Anise swallowtail

Papilio zelicaon

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Western swallowtail

The anise swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon) is often confused with the Tiger swallowtail. They are differentiated by being smaller in size and lacking the stripping patterns. They like flat plains or hills and are often seen hanging around the vacant lots of towns.

General Info About Anise swallowtail
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Attributes of Anise swallowtail
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Orange
Habitat
bare hill; mountain; field; roadside; town; garden; vacant lot
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers such as milkweed, thistles, and red clover.
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Anise swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Anise 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 Anise 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 Anise swallowtail
It is occasionally reported from the southeastern United States, but its normal range does not extend east of New Mexico.
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Distribution Area of Anise swallowtail
Western North America
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Appearance of Anise swallowtail
The anise swallowtail has a wingspan ranging from 5 - 8 cm. Wings are mostly yellow, with black bands along the edges of both the forewings and hindwings. They are distinguished from tiger swallowtail butterflies by being smaller in size and lacking the vertical black striping patterns. There are yellowish-orange to red eyespots near the tails of each wing, each containing a black pupil. The body is predominantly black, with yellow stripes running laterally along the abdomen.
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How to Identify Anise swallowtail?

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Life Cycle of Anise swallowtail
Egg The egg of anise swallowtail is round and tiny, initially of a pale color that may darken over time. It serves as a protective capsule for the developing larva inside.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of anise swallowtail is a caterpillar that focuses on feeding and growth. This stage is characterized by several molts, during which the caterpillar increases in size and may change color.
Pupal Transitioning into the pupal stage, the anise swallowtail forms a chrysalis. Within this protective case, profound transformation occurs. The organism's shape simplifies as it prepares for adult morphology.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult anise 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.
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Adult Size of Anise swallowtail
5 - 8 cm
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Predators of Anise swallowtail Larvae
Ants, wasps, spiders, birds, mammals
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Predators of Adult Anise swallowtail
Birds, spiders, mammals, praying mantises
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Scientific Classification of Anise swallowtail
Tips for Finding Anise swallowtail
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How Can You Attract Anise swallowtail
Adult anise swallowtail are particularly attracted to nectar from flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of specific host plants.
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Habitat Preferences of Anise swallowtail Through Different Life Stages
During the egg stage, anise swallowtail is typically found on the leaves of host plants, such as dill or parsley. As caterpillars, they prefer to feed on the foliage of these and similar umbelliferous plants, often in herb gardens or meadows. Searching for the pupal stage requires inspecting the underside of leaves or other sheltered areas close to the larval food sources where they attach themselves to undergo metamorphosis. Adults, on the other hand, are usually seen in open fields and gardens hovering around flowers from which they feed on nectar, and seeking mates and laying eggs on suitable host plants to close the life cycle.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Anise swallowtail
The best time to find adult anise swallowtail is usually mid-morning to early afternoon on sunny days when they are most active. Caterpillars can be found throughout the day, but are easiest to spot when they are feeding.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Anise swallowtail
Ideal weather conditions for finding anise swallowtail are warm, sunny days with little to no wind, as these are the conditions in which anise swallowtail are most active and visibly flying or feeding.
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How and Where Can You Find Anise swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of anise swallowtail can be found on the underside of leaves of the host plant. Search for tiny, spherical or ovate objects attached individually to the foliage.
Larva Caterpillars of anise swallowtail are usually found on or near their specific host plants. Look for them by inspecting the leaves for signs of feeding, such as chewed edges or frass (caterpillar droppings).
Pupal Pupae of anise swallowtail are often attached to the stems of plants or hidden in leaf litter. Search for chrysalides by carefully examining the plants in the area where caterpillars were present.
Adult Adult anise swallowtail can be found feeding on nectar from flowers, basking in the sun, or flying around their habitat. To find them, visit gardens or wild areas with abundant flowering plants during the hours when they are most active.
Are Anise swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the anise 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 Anise swallowtail harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Harmful Effects of Anise swallowtail
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Garden and Landscape Pest

Larvae of anise swallowtail feed on leaves of host plants, leading to defoliation. Mild infestations may cause limited leaf loss, but severe cases can strip foliage completely, harming plant health and agricultural yield. This defoliation can stress plants and reduce aesthetic and economic value, occasionally affecting human enjoyment and agricultural operations.

More Effects of Anise swallowtail

Beneficial Effects of Anise 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
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Anise swallowtail inadvertently aids in pollination while feeding on nectar from flowers. Though not a primary pollinator, anise swallowtail's attraction to vibrant colors and distinct shapes of certain plants like the Asteraceae results in pollen sticking to its body and being transferred from flower to flower.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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