Size
Wing span: 3 1/2 - 4 1/2 inches (9 - 12 cm).(1)
Identification
Lacks tails. Black above with submarginal yellow band.(1)
Larva somewhat similar to Pipevine Swallowtail, but spines are orange and body marked with stripes
Range
South Texas and peninsular Florida south to Argentina. Strays north to Kentucky and Missouri.(1)
Habitat
Open woods, abandoned fields, disturbed areas.(1)
Season
Two-3 flights from April-November.(1)
Food
Caterpillar hosts: Pipevines (Aristolochia species).
Adult food: Nectar of lantana. Occasionally seen feeding on honeysuckle and soapweed flowers.(1)
Life Cycle
Female lays eggs in groups of 10-14 on exposed new stems or growing tips of vines. Caterpillars feed in groups when young. Overwinter as chrysalids.(1)
See Also
Pipevine Swallowtail (larva) is somewhat similar in shape and coloration, especially in earlier instars. Both feed on
Aristolochia spp.
