description Western Tiger Swallowtail Overview
The western tiger swallowtail, Papilio rutulus, is a large butterfly found across western North America. Its yellow wings bear bold black tiger-like stripes, dark borders, and tail-like projections on the hindwings, making adults readily recognizable. The larvae feed on several kinds of deciduous trees, including willows, cottonwoods, and sycamores, so the species is frequently encountered near rivers, wooded urban areas, parks, and other places where these host plants grow.
help Western Tiger Swallowtail FAQ
What does the Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly look like?
The Western Tiger Swallowtail is easily recognized by its bright yellow wings marked with distinct black tiger stripes. It also features unique black edges on its wings with small yellow spots and a prominent orange-red eyespot near the tail.
Where is the habitat of the Western Tiger Swallowtail?
This butterfly is a common sight throughout western North America, ranging from British Columbia down to Baja California. They strongly prefer riparian habitats, meaning they are frequently found near rivers, streams, and wooded valleys.
What plants do Western Tiger Swallowtail caterpillars eat?
The caterpillars of this species feed on the leaves of various broadleaf trees and shrubs. Common host plants include willow, cottonwood, alder, and sycamore trees, which grow abundantly in their preferred riparian habitats.
Are Western Tiger Swallowtails poisonous to predators?
While the adult butterflies are not toxic, the early-stage caterpillars look like bird droppings to camouflage themselves from predators. In their later stages, the caterpillars possess an orange, horn-like organ called an osmeterium that emits a foul odor to deter threats.
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