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Picture
Photo © Jim Steamer
Picture
Photo © Jim Steamer

eastern black swallowtail

Papilo polyxenes

Identification:  Wingspan 2.6-3.5 inches. Bluish-black above, more bluish on hindwings. Band of large yellow spots through both fore and hindwings; more prominent in males. These spots are more orange on the ventral surface, especially in females. The bright orange “eyespot” with a black center near the tip of the hindwing is distinctive.

Habitat:  Gardens, meadow, open fields, etc.

Garden Habit:  It seldom flies in woods.  Usually fluttery while they nectar.

Host Plants:  Species of the Parsley family: perennials: fennel, alexanders, biennials: parsley, wild carrot, annuals: dill, celery, lovage, etc.  

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