Spicebush swallowtail (larva)

Description:

First three instars resemble a bird dropping. Last two instars are green with large eyespots - the two largest on third thoracic segment have black "pupils", two smaller ones on first abdominal segment do not. The larva changes color to orange or yellow just prior to pupating. (information from BugGuide)

Habitat:

City park

Notes:

The caterpillar was wandering, meaning it was on the ground, looking for a place to pupate. I placed it on this unknown plant for photos. It was set free after the shots.