Eastern tiger swallowtail

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is a species of butterfly belonging to the family Papilionidae. It is one of the most recognizable and common butterflies in the eastern United States, where it is widespread. The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is known for its striking yellow and black striped appearance, which is thought to mimic the coloring of the toxic Pipevine Swallowtail to deter predators, a phenomenon known as Batesian mimicry.

Description

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail has distinctive yellow and black striped wings, which give this butterfly its common name. The male has a more pronounced yellow color, while the female can vary from yellow to black, indicating a form of sexual dimorphism. Both sexes have elongated tails on their hindwings, resembling the tails of swallows, hence the name swallowtail. The wingspan of an adult can range from 3 to 5.5 inches (7.6 to 14 cm).

Habitat and Distribution

This species is found primarily in the eastern United States, from New England to the Gulf Coast and west to the Mississippi River. It inhabits a variety of environments, including deciduous forests, open woodlands, meadows, and even urban areas with sufficient green spaces.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail includes four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, including species of Magnoliaceae, Rosaceae, and Lauraceae families. The caterpillar is green and camouflaged among the leaves, with an enlarged head and eyespots to deter predators. It undergoes several molts before pupating. The chrysalis can be green or brown, depending on the surrounding environment, to enhance camouflage. The butterfly emerges from the chrysalis after about two weeks, completing the metamorphosis.

Behavior

Adult Eastern Tiger Swallowtails are active during the day (diurnal). They are often seen feeding on the nectar of a wide variety of flowers, including milkweed, thistles, and honeysuckle. They have a distinctive flight pattern, characterized by a series of glides and flaps.

Conservation Status

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. Its widespread distribution and adaptability to different habitats have helped maintain stable populations. However, like many butterfly species, it faces threats from habitat destruction and the use of pesticides.

Cultural Significance

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is the state butterfly of several U.S. states, including Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. It is admired for its beauty and is a popular subject in art and photography.