Eastern black swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)
Description
The Eastern black swallowtail is a common species of butterfly found across North America. It can be identified by its contrasting black wings with yellow and white spots.
Details
Diet | Known Problems | Mature Size | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
The Eastern black swallowtail has a diet of milkweed and leaves as a larva and the nectar of clovers, thistles, and milkweed as an adult | Decreasing population due to habitat loss | A mature Eastern black swallowtail can grow to have a 10-cementer wide wingspan | Red spots near the abdomen can drive away predators by looking like the eyes of a much bigger animal |