description Indra Swallowtail Overview
The Indra Swallowtail (*Papilio indra*) is a butterfly native to western North America, with its range extending from British Columbia down to California and New Mexico. It features black wings marked by contrasting yellow spots, with the specific pattern varying significantly among its multiple recognized subspecies. The butterfly typically inhabits rugged, mountainous terrain, rocky canyons, and arid environments where its larval host plants, largely from the parsley family, grow. It is primarily studied by lepidopterists due to its localized populations and distinct ecological adaptations.
help Indra Swallowtail FAQ
Where does the Indra Swallowtail live?
The Indra Swallowtail, Papilio indra, ranges across western North America from British Columbia through the western United States to areas including California and New Mexico. Its populations are often separated by mountain ranges and dry regions.
What does an Indra Swallowtail look like?
It has mostly black wings with contrasting yellow spots and bands. The exact pattern varies considerably between regional forms, so individuals from California may look different from those farther north or east.
What plants feed Indra Swallowtail caterpillars?
The caterpillars generally use plants in the parsley family, especially lomatium species in western habitats. The precise host plant depends on the local population and its region.
How is the Indra Swallowtail different from the Western Tiger Swallowtail?
The Indra Swallowtail is predominantly black with yellow markings, while the Western Tiger Swallowtail is mainly yellow with dark tiger-like striping. The two species can occur in parts of the same broad western range, but their wing patterns are usually easy to separate.
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