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The larvae of American swallowtails are attracted to the oils of plants such as dill, parsley, celery, and carrots. These plants produce specific chemicals that repel insects that try to eat them. American swallowtail larvae are resistant to these chemicals, so when they feed on the plants, the chemicals make them bad-tasting to bird predators. |
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Black Swallowtail
Papilio polyxenes
At-a-Glance
• Flight Period: May, June, July, and August
• Wings: 3 - 4.5 inches
• Typical Foods: dill, parsley, celery, carraway and carrots |
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Description
The summer brood females of the black swallowtail have a larger blue area on the dorsal hind-wing and fewer yellow markings on the dorsal forewing. These different color forms are often mistaken for separate species. The spring form of the female has more blue on the dorsal hindwing than the male, but also has yellow markings on the forewing much like the male.
Habitat and Habits
The black swallowtail inhabits fields and meadows, woodland edges, and gardens. It can be found in all 88 Ohio counties, but is less common in the heavily forested parts of southeastern Ohio.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
The female will lay an average of 200-440 eggs. The larvae of black swallowtail feed on various members of the parsley family and Queen Anne's lace. |
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