description Pale Swallowtail Overview
The pale swallowtail, Papilio eurymedon, is a butterfly native to western North America. It has creamy white to pale yellow wings crossed by bold black stripes, with tail-like projections and blue and red markings on the hindwings. Adults occur in woodland, mountain canyons, and riparian habitats, where they visit flowers for nectar; their larvae feed on shrubs and trees in families including buckthorn and rose.
help Pale Swallowtail FAQ
Where can I find the Pale Swallowtail butterfly?
The pale swallowtail (Papilio eurymedon) is native to western North America. It is commonly spotted in mountain canyons, woodlands, and riparian habitats from British Columbia down to New Mexico.
What does a Pale Swallowtail look like?
The pale swallowtail features creamy white to pale yellow wings crossed by bold, distinctive black stripes. It also has tail-like projections on its hindwings, along with striking blue and red markings near the edges.
What plants do Pale Swallowtail caterpillars eat?
The larvae of the pale swallowtail primarily feed on the leaves of woody shrubs and trees. Common host plants include species within the rose family (Rosaceae), such as cherry and plum, as well as ceanothus.
When does the Pale Swallowtail fly?
Adult pale swallowtails are typically active from late spring through late summer, depending on their geographical location. They usually produce a single brood per year in the northern parts of their range and two broods in the south.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
