Giant Swallowtail Butterfly (Papilio cresphontes)

Giant Swallowtail
Copyright: Fred Miller
The Giant Swallowtail butterfly is one of North America’s largest butterflies; its wingspan can reach up to 7 inches. Two defining characteristics are the two rows of yellow spots on the upper side of their wings and the blue spots on the underside of the hind wings.
Its larval nickname is the Orange Dog because this species loves to feed on citrus plants and when disturbed, it extends an osmeterium, a foul smelling scent gland used to deter predators. Speaking of caterpillars, these look just like bird droppings – a unique trait to avoid getting eaten by predators. The Giant Swallowtail would be an excellent addition to any garden.
Giant Swallowtail Photos, Facts, And Information

Giant Swallowtail Eggs
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards

Small Round Yellow Butterfly Egg on Leaf
Copyright: Fred Miller

Ant Next to Butterfly Egg
Copyright: Fred Miller

Giant Swallowtail Caterpillar
Copyright: Patty Bigner

Giant Swallowtail Frass (Poop)
Copyright: Patty Bigner

Caterpillar Resembles Bird Poop
Copyright: Fred Miller

Brown Caterpillar with White Blotches
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards

Climbing Tree Trunk
Copyright: Fred Miller

Brown and White Caterpillar
Copyright: Fred Miller

Giant Swallowtail Pupating - Look Closely at the Silk Harness
Copyright: Fred Miller

Brown Camouflage Chrysalis on House
Copyright: Fred Miller

Yellow and Black Giant Swallowtail
Copyright: Fred Miller

Black Round Eyes
Copyright: Fred Miller

Butterfly with Yellow Thorax and Wings
Copyright: Fred Miller
Giant Swallowtail Host and Nectar Plants
Host Plants for the Giant Swallowtail: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants for the Giant Swallowtail: (What is this?)
Giant Swallowtail Facts And Information
Butterfly Family: Swallowtails & Parnassians (Papilionidae)
Butterfly Subfamily: Swallowtail (Papilioninae)
Butterfly Wingspan: 4 in. to 7 in.
Butterfly Habitat: Fields, wooded areas, citrus orchards
Giant Swallowtail Flight Range Map
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
