The Giant Swallowtail is one of the largest butterflies in North America.
The Giant Swallowtail larva feed on Citrus trees and various other plants in the Rutaceae family. We fed this one Rue during its first few instars, moving it to a tangerine tree for its last instar. The larva is often called "Orange Dog" and is considered a pest by many citrus growers in the southern U.S. It mimics a bird dropping, and like many swallowtails displays a red-orange osmeterium from behind its headwhen disturbed. The osmeterium has a foul smell that is designed to scare enemies away.
Click on any of the thumbnails to get a larger picture.
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This is a 4th instar giant caterpillar with its ost extended. The caterpillar puts the ost when it is disturbed. It has a foul smell to it that is used to ward off predators. |
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The chrysalis are rather large by swallowtail standards. Although it doesn't show well in the picture, the pupa has a green-blue tint to the otherwise gray colors. |
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This is the underside of the giant, which, in direct opposition to its upper side, is mostly yellow with brilliant shades of blue and red spots. I think this is the most beautiful part of this butterfly. |
Address questions or comments to: Scott Henninger, scotth#cse.unl.edu (to prevent automated SPAM systems, I have replaced the normal '@' symbol - just put it back in to send a message)