Photo © Jim Steamer
|
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.
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.