Giant Swallowtail of the Andes vs Swamp Metalmark
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Swallowtail of the Andes | Swamp Metalmark |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Papilio thoas | Calephelis mutica |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Riodinidae |
| Size | 110-140 mm wingspan | 22-28 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Wetlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia) | Upper Midwest United States, Great Lakes region |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened; extremely local |
Giant Swallowtail of the Andes
One of the largest swallowtail butterflies in South America, with bold yellow and black striped wings and long tail streamers. It is a powerful flier that ranges from sea level to over 2000 m in the Andes. Larvae mimic bird droppings as a defense mechanism.
Did You Know?
When threatened, the caterpillar everts a bright red forked organ called an osmeterium from behind its head, releasing a foul-smelling chemical.
Swamp Metalmark
A rare and localized metalmark butterfly of midwestern wetlands with warm rusty-brown wings marked with fine metallic lines. It has very specific habitat requirements.
Did You Know?
Some populations consist of fewer than 50 individuals, making it one of North America's most vulnerable butterflies.