Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Description:

Male is yellow with dark tiger stripes. Female has 2 forms: one yellow like the male and the other black with shadows of dark stripes. Hindwing of both female forms has a row of striking blue chevrons and an iridescent blue wash over parts of the interior hindwing. The upperside hindwing has a prominent orange marginal spot that is generally larger than the row of pale marginal spots. On the underside of forewing of spring individuals the row of marginal spots may be merged into a continuous band. Size: 2 1/2 - 4 1/2 inches (6.2 - 11.4 cm)

Habitat:

Range: Eastern North America from Ontario south to Gulf coast, west to Colorado plains and central Texas. Deciduous broadleaf woods, forest edges, river valleys, parks, and suburbs. Adult Food: Nectar of flowers from a variety of plants including wild cherry and lilac (Syringa vulgaris). Milkweed (Asclepias) and Joe-Pye Weed [Eupatorium] are favorites in summer.