Eastern Tiger Swallowtail | Papilio glaucus PUPAE

Papilio glaucus, commonly known as the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, is a large and striking butterfly in the family Papilionidae. Native to North America, it is widely distributed across the eastern United States and parts of Canada, thriving in diverse habitats such as forests, meadows, gardens, and parks.

This species is celebrated for its vivid wing pattern. Adult males display bright yellow wings with black tiger-like stripes, earning them their common name. Females can be either yellow or a darker morph, almost black, with hints of blue on the hindwings. This dimorphism helps females mimic other distasteful butterfly species, aiding in predator avoidance. The wingspan ranges from 8 to 14 cm, making it one of the largest butterflies in its range.

The lifecycle of Papilio glaucus includes egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult stages. Caterpillars are green with large eye-like spots, a defensive adaptation to deter predators. Host plants include tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera), wild cherry (Prunus species), and others.

Adults feed on nectar from flowers, including milkweed, lilac, and thistle, and play an important role as pollinators. The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a beloved symbol of summer and a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts due to its beauty and ecological significance.

Host plants: Ash, Birch, Alder, Willow, Cherry, Ash. Multiple others reported.

Difficulty: Easy (1/10)

Temperature: Room temp. or warmer; butterflies enjoy sunshine.

Lifecycle: two broods annually; pupae hibernate.