About 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.
Did You Know?
Caterpillars extend a foul-smelling orange forked organ called an osmeterium when threatened.
How to Identify Black Swallowtail
Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Papilionidae. Adults typically measure 69-84 mm wingspan.
Black Swallowtail Habitat
Black Swallowtail is found in gardens habitats, particularly across North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Black Swallowtail Diet and Feeding
Black Swallowtail feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Black Swallowtail Found?
Black Swallowtail can be found in North America, where it inhabits gardens environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Black Swallowtail can be found
Is Black Swallowtail Dangerous?
Black Swallowtail is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Black Swallowtail Role in Nature
Black Swallowtail plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Swallowtail
What does Black Swallowtail look like?
The Black Swallowtail typically measures 69-84 mm wingspan.
Where is Black Swallowtail found?
The Black Swallowtail is found in North America and typically inhabits gardens environments.
What does Black Swallowtail eat?
The Black Swallowtail feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Black Swallowtail dangerous to humans?
The Black Swallowtail is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Black Swallowtail?
Caterpillars extend a foul-smelling orange forked organ called an osmeterium when threatened.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-swallowtail
MLA:
"Black Swallowtail." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/black-swallowtail.