The Black Swallowtail caterpillar (Papilio polyxenes) is a colorful butterfly larva commonly found eating parsley, dill, fennel, celery, and related plants. Young caterpillars are dark and resemble bird droppings, while mature larvae become green with black bands and yellow-orange spots. They are sometimes called parsley caterpillars because of their strong association with garden herbs. Although … Read more
The Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes) is a striking North American butterfly known for its dark wings, yellow markings, and colorful caterpillars. Often called the parsley swallowtail, its larvae commonly appear on parsley, dill, fennel, celery, and other plants in the carrot family. Young caterpillars look dramatically different from mature ones, while adults also show noticeable … Read more
The Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillar (Battus philenor) is a distinctive butterfly larva found across much of North America. Mature caterpillars are usually dark brown or black with bright orange spots and fleshy projections, although red forms also occur. They feed almost exclusively on pipevines in the genus Aristolochia, absorbing plant chemicals that make them distasteful to … Read more
The common Mormon (Papilio polytes) is a striking swallowtail butterfly found widely across Asia. It is especially well known for the remarkable differences between males and females. Males are mostly black with a pale band across the hindwings, while some females mimic toxic swallowtails such as the common rose. The caterpillars commonly feed on curry … Read more
The Julia butterfly (Dryas iulia), also called the Julia heliconian or Julia longwing, is a striking orange butterfly found from South America through Central America and the Caribbean into southern parts of the United States. Its long, narrow wings and fast flight make it easy to recognize. Males are usually brilliant orange, while females are … Read more
The pipevine swallowtail (Battus philenor) is a striking North American butterfly recognized by its black wings, shimmering blue or blue-green hindwings, and bright orange spots underneath. Its caterpillar is equally distinctive, with a dark body, orange tubercles, and long fleshy projections. Pipevine swallowtails depend on Aristolochia, or pipevine, plants during the larval stage. By storing … Read more
Butterflies are some of the most beautiful and interesting insects in nature. They come in many colors, sizes, and patterns, making each type unique. From the famous Monarch Butterfly to the bright Blue Morpho and graceful Swallowtails, these butterflies can be found in gardens, forests, fields, and tropical areas around the world. 1. Monarch Butterfly … Read more
