Golden-tailed Bull Ant vs Black Swallowtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Golden-tailed Bull Ant Black Swallowtail
Scientific Name Myrmecia chrysogaster Papilio polyxenes
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Formicidae Papilionidae
Size 15-22 mm 69-84 mm wingspan
Habitat Heathland Gardens
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Australia, Oceania North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Golden-tailed Bull Ant

A strikingly coloured bull ant with a distinctive golden-yellow gaster and reddish-brown head and thorax. Like other Myrmecia species, it possesses a powerful sting and excellent eyesight.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most ants, bull ant workers hunt individually rather than cooperatively, relying on their keen vision.

Black Swallowtail

Black butterfly with yellow spot bands and blue hindwing patches; orange and black eyespot on each hindwing. Common in gardens across eastern North America.

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Did You Know?

Caterpillars extend a foul-smelling orange forked organ called an osmeterium when threatened.