Black Swallowtail

Papilio polyxenes, the (eastern) black swallowtail, American swallowtail or parsnip swallowtail, is a butterfly found throughout much of North America. An extremely similar-appearing species, Papilio joanae, occurs in the Ozark Mountains region, but it appears to be closely related to Papilio machaon, rather than P. polyxenes. The species is named after the figure in Greek mythology, Polyxena, who was the youngest daughter of King Priam of Troy. Its caterpillar is often called the "parsleyworm" because the caterpillar feeds on parsley. Scientific Name: Papilio polyxenes Range: Central & eastern North America, south to South America Size: Wingspan 7–10 cm Status: Common ID Notes: Black with two rows of yellow spots and iridescent blue scaling on hindwings. Long tails. Caterpillar is striped green, black, and yellow. Behavior / Notes: Caterpillars feed on parsley, dill, carrots, and other Apiaceae — often found in vegetable gardens.