Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Scientific Name: Papilio glaucus
Category: insect
Brief Description
A large, yellow butterfly with black tiger-like stripes, seen here nectaring on a purple Blazing Star flower.
Characteristics
Bright yellow wings with four black diagonal stripes on the forewings and wide black borders with yellow spots. Hindwings feature long tails and blue/orange spots near the base.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, woodlands, gardens, parks, and river valleys across eastern North America.
When to Find It
Spring to late summer, typically most active during the warmest parts of the day.
Conservation Status
Common/Least Concern
Ecological Role
Acts as an important pollinator for many wildflowers and trees. Caterpillars serve as a food source for birds and spiders.
Easily Confused With
Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (nearly identical but smaller, found further north) and the Western Tiger Swallowtail (found in western North America).
Observation Tips
Look for them near nectar-rich flowers like Liatris (Blazing Star), Milkweed, and Joe-Pye Weed. They are also known for 'puddling' on damp sand or mud to drink minerals.
Interesting Facts
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail was the first North American insect to be illustrated in 1587. Some females are dimorphic, meaning they can be solid black instead of yellow to mimic the poisonous Pipevine Swallowtail.