Butterflies

Butterfly and Moth Image Gallery : Butterflies

Papilio polyxenes asterius (Black Swallowtail)

The Black Swallowtail butterfly measures from 3 to 4 inches in wingspan. The male is distinguished by strong lines of yellow spots on the upperside of both wings that form a V when wings are outspread. The female's similar line of spots is very faint; however the female has large blue markings on the hindwings, but the male's blue markings are smaller. The undersides of both sexes show orange-red and yellow markings.

This species lives in open areas such as parks, meadows, along streams and roads both rural and urban. It is common throughout Illinois. There are two to three generations per year. Early adults emerge in April and are present all summer, feeding on flower nectar. Females lay eggs on plants in the carrot family, such as parsley, dill, carrot, and parsnip. Larvae feed on the foliage; pupae overwinter nearby.

Collection of the Illinois State Museum
Photographed by Dr. Everett Cashatt
Accession #:

Butterfly and Moth Image Gallery : Butterflies

First | Previous | Next | Last