Giant Swallowtail
(Papilio cresphontes)
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Species Description
**Description:** The largest butterfly in North America, featuring black wings with a bold, diagonal "X" or "V" pattern of yellow spots.
**Size:** Wingspan of 4 to 6.2 inches.
**Sexual Dimorphism:** Males and females are similar, but females are generally larger with more blue on the hindwings.
**Life Cycle:** Caterpillars, known as "Orange Dogs," mimic bird droppings to avoid predators and feed on Prickly Ash or Hop-trees.
**Habitat:** Sunny forest edges, woodlands, and gardens.
**Behavior:** Powerful, high-soaring fliers that often descend to feed on nectar.
**Size:** Wingspan of 4 to 6.2 inches.
**Sexual Dimorphism:** Males and females are similar, but females are generally larger with more blue on the hindwings.
**Life Cycle:** Caterpillars, known as "Orange Dogs," mimic bird droppings to avoid predators and feed on Prickly Ash or Hop-trees.
**Habitat:** Sunny forest edges, woodlands, and gardens.
**Behavior:** Powerful, high-soaring fliers that often descend to feed on nectar.