A worldwide community photographing and learning about wildlife
Papilio polyxenes
Swallowtail caterpillars have a defense mechanism, called an osmeterium, located behind the head. The osmeterium, which resembles a snake's tongue, is normally hidden until the caterpillar becomes disturbed. This gland emits a strong odor to repel predators.
Southern Canada - Mexico. Host Plants: parsley family (Umbelliferae) including carrot, parsley, dill, fennel and Queen Anne's lace and some members of the Rutaceae (Ruta graveolens and Thamnosma texana).
Image 3 is of the first or second instar of this caterpillar on July 20, 2011. All were observed on Fennel.
3 Comments
Thank you Mick & Nopayahnah! :)
Very good photos and observation!
Superb photos and the addition of the third one makes this really interesting!