.holliscdl

gallery

The Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus) is the state butterfly of Mississippi. They are found throughout the midwestern and eastern United States. They are large butterflies with a wingspan of 3.5-4.5 inches (9-11.5 cm). Spicebush swallowtails are sometimes called green clouded swallowtails because of the green coloring on the males' hindwings. The hindwings of females are more blue than green. Adult spicebush swallowtails will drink the nectar from many types of flowers, but some of their favorites are butterfly bush, purple coneflower, butterfly weed and common milkweed, lantana, zinnias, honeysuckle, and thistle. The caterpillars feed primarily on (as their name implies) the spicebush. This specimen was enjoying the orange zinnias in our 2010 garden. Thanks for viewing. Hope you enjoy!