Swallowtail caterpillars are fascinating creatures and an integral part of the life cycle of swallowtail butterflies. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about these captivating insects, making your encounters with them even more enjoyable.
As you become better acquainted with swallowtail caterpillars, you’ll learn about their diverse appearances, diet preferences, and behavior. You’ll also discover how to distinguish them from other caterpillars and how to support their conservation in your own garden. So, let’s dive in and uncover the wonders of the swallowtail caterpillar.
Identifying Swallowtail Caterpillar
Swallowtail caterpillars are easy to recognize with their vibrant colors, including green, black, and yellow-orange. To help you identify them correctly, here are few key characteristics:
- Swallowtail caterpillars have vibrant colors like orange, green, and black.
- Black swallowtail caterpillars have narrow black bands on each body segment, which are interrupted by yellow-orange dots.
- Spicebush swallowtail caterpillars have forewings and body that are black and hind wings with two orange spots.
Keep in mind these key differences when identifying swallowtail caterpillars:
| Black Swallowtail Caterpillar | Spicebush Swallowtail Caterpillar | |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Green, black, yellow-orange | Black, white, orange |
| Black Bands | Yes | No |
| Yellow-Orange Dots | Yes | No |
| Orange Spots on Hind Wings | No | Yes |
To find swallowtail caterpillars, search for their preferred food sources. For example, black swallowtail caterpillars often feed on plants from the carrot family (Apiaceae), while spicebush swallowtail caterpillars feed on plants like spicebush or sassafras.
Remember that each caterpillar species has its unique characteristics and preferences, so pay attention to these details when identifying them. Happy caterpillar hunting!
Life Cycle of a Swallowtail Caterpillar
The life cycle of a swallowtail caterpillar is fascinating, as it goes through several stages before becoming an adult butterfly. Let’s explore each phase briefly.
Eggs: Swallowtail butterflies start by laying tiny, spherical eggs on host plants. For example, black swallowtail butterflies lay their eggs on plants from the carrot family.
Instars: As the caterpillar hatches from the egg, it enters the larval stage, which is divided into five instars or growth periods. During each instar, the caterpillar grows and eventually sheds its old skin or molts.
- First instar: Newly hatched, small, and fragile
- Fifth instar: Largest, about to transition to the pupal stage
Metamorphosis: Once the caterpillar has fully grown, it begins transforming into a chrysalis or pupa. This stage is crucial as the caterpillar undergoes significant changes to become a butterfly.
Chrysalis/Pupa: The caterpillar forms a protective casing known as a chrysalis or pupa. Inside this casing, it continues its transformation.
Overwintering: Some swallowtail species, such as black swallowtails, overwinter as pupae. During this time, they remain dormant and well-hidden in a sheltered location to protect themselves from cold temperatures.
Emerging: Finally, after several weeks or months, the adult butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. It pumps fluid into its wings to expand them and waits for them to dry before taking its first flight.
By understanding the life cycle of a swallowtail caterpillar, you can appreciate the fascinating process these beautiful insects undergo. Remember to keep an eye out for them in their various stages as you enjoy nature.
Diet and Habitat
The diet of a Swallowtail Caterpillar consists mainly of plants from the carrot family (Apiaceae). These caterpillars, also known as parsleyworms, have a passion for feasting on specific plants such as parsley, dill, fennel, and Queen Anne’s lace. When it comes to your garden, they’re particularly attracted to herbs.
As for swallowtail butterflies, they typically inhabit open areas, like meadows, parks, wetlands, and prairies. You may even spot these stunning creatures fluttering around in your own sunlit backyard!
Here are some key features of Swallowtail Caterpillar’s preferred host plants:
- Parsley
- Dill
- Fennel
- Queen Anne’s Lace
Adult black swallowtails lay their eggs on these host plants, which then become the primary food source of their caterpillars once they hatch.
By planting some of these herbs in your garden, you’re not only ensuring a visit from swallowtail butterflies, but also providing them with a safe place to lay eggs and nurture their offspring. Alternatively, if you want to avoid a caterpillar invasion, you can choose to grow plants that are not as enticing for the swallowtails – milkweed or rue, for example.
To summarize, Swallowtail Caterpillar’s diet and habitat involve consuming plants from the carrot family (Apiaceae) and residing in open sunny spaces. Just remember, for a friendly encounter with this species, nurture those specific herbs in your garden!
Evasive Techniques and Defense Mechanisms
Swallowtail caterpillars, including the Black Swallowtail, have developed various evasive techniques and defense mechanisms to protect themselves from predators like birds, wasps, spiders, and parasitic wasps.
One unique defense mechanism is the osmeterium, a forked, horn-like organ found in all swallowtail larvae. Black Swallowtail caterpillars have a bright yellow-orange osmeterium that resembles a snake’s tongue. When disturbed, the caterpillar will rear up and extend the osmeterium to release a foul odor1. This helps to repel potential predators and keep the caterpillar safe from harm.
As Black Swallowtail caterpillars grow, they go through several instar stages. In the earlier instars, they have a bird dropping-like appearance2. This clever camouflage makes them less likely to be detected by birds and other predators. As they reach the later instars, their coloration changes to green3, which aids in hiding among the plants they feed on.
Here is a quick comparison of the main defense mechanisms in Black Swallowtail caterpillars:
| Defense Mechanism | Description |
|---|---|
| Osmeterium | Forked, horn-like organ that emits a foul odor when threatened4 |
| Camouflage | Bird-dropping appearance in early instars, green coloration in later instars5 |
In summary:
- Black Swallowtail caterpillars have a defensive osmeterium and camouflage to help evade predators
- Early instars resemble bird droppings, while later instar stages have a green coloration
By understanding these evasive techniques and defense mechanisms, you can appreciate the unique ways that swallowtail caterpillars, including the Black Swallowtail, have evolved to survive in their environments.
Role in the Ecosystem
Swallowtail caterpillars play a vital role in the ecosystem as they transform into beautiful butterflies, like the black swallowtail butterfly, which are essential for pollination. These butterflies feed on nectar from flowers, helping to spread pollen and maintain the balance of plant life in their native areas. You’ll find swallowtail butterflies in various parts of North America, ranging from Canada to Mexico, as well as in South America.
When swallowtail caterpillars consume plants, they are also a source of food for many birds and other insects. This keeps the ecosystem in check and allows the food chain to function properly.
As a butterfly enthusiast or nature lover, you might come across swallowtail caterpillars and butterflies in parks and other natural habitats. Here are some features and characteristics of swallowtail caterpillars and their role in the ecosystem:
- Butterflies: Swallowtail butterflies are known for their colorful wings and striking patterns.
- Nectar: These butterflies feed on nectar from flowers, aiding in pollination.
- Birds: Swallowtail caterpillars can serve as a food source for birds.
- Insects: Besides birds, they also provide sustenance for a variety of insects.
- Native Regions: Swallowtails are native to North America (Canada to Mexico) and South America.
- Parks: You can often find swallowtail butterflies in parks and natural habitats.
Thus, swallowtail caterpillars are an important part of the ecosystem. By understanding their role, you can better appreciate the beauty of these creatures and their positive impact on the environment.
Threats and Conservation
Swallowtail caterpillars, although beneficial to the ecosystem, can sometimes be a nuisance in gardens and fields. They can damage your plants by feeding on their leaves. Despite this, you may still want to consider their conservation, as they help pollinate flowers and support the food chain.
To protect your garden, you might take preventive measures. A few ways to prevent them from becoming a pest are:
- Planting sacrificial plants in the outskirts of your garden
- Encouraging natural predators, like birds and insects, to settle and control the caterpillar population
In meadows and fields, swallowtail caterpillars contribute to the overall biodiversity. They serve as a food source for predators like birds, spiders, and wasps.
Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of having swallowtail caterpillars in your garden:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pollinate flowers | Can damage plants |
| Support the food chain | May compete with other beneficial insects for resources |
Now that you have a better understanding of the threats and conservation efforts related to swallowtail caterpillars, you can make an informed decision to balance their presence in your garden and the environment.
How to Attract or Discourage Swallowtail Caterpillars
Attracting Swallowtail Caterpillars to your garden can be a delightful experience, as you’ll have the chance to observe these beautiful butterflies in their natural habitat. To encourage their presence, plant some of their favorite host plants, such as fennel, dill, or parsley. These herbs are rich in nectar and provide food for both the larvae and adult butterflies.
To create a more inviting environment for Swallowtail Caterpillars, consider designing a butterfly nursery in your garden. You can use carrot tops as a natural way to attract them. They’ll lay their eggs on these plants and help maintain the population.
Attracting Swallowtail Caterpillars:
- Plant fennel, dill, or parsley.
- Use carrot tops in your nursery.
- Provide a diverse ecosystem to support various life stages.
However, if you want to discourage Swallowtail Caterpillars from devouring your garden’s herbs, try these methods:
- Cover your herbs with a fine mesh net to prevent the butterflies from laying eggs there.
- Remove any visible caterpillars by hand, using gloves or a paper towel. Dispose of them in a separate container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Encourage their natural predators, such as birds or predatory insects, to keep the caterpillar population under control.
Discouraging Swallowtail Caterpillars:
- Use fine mesh netting to protect herbs.
- Handpick caterpillars with gloves or paper towels.
- Attract natural predators for pest control.
With a bit of planning and effort, you can create a garden that caters to your preferences, whether you want to attract more Swallowtail Caterpillars or discourage them from munching on your precious herbs. Remember to always respect their natural habitat and make informed decisions to ensure a healthy ecosystem.
Interesting Facts about Swallowtail Caterpillars
Swallowtail caterpillars come in a variety of colors and patterns, but most have a combination of yellow and blue. They mainly feed on plants from the Apiaceae (parsley) family, often found munching on branches or leaves.
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is one of the most common species. These caterpillars have beautiful colors and are found in areas east of the Mississippi River 1. The Spicebush Swallowtail is another fascinating species. Males and females tend to have different appearances, with males having more vibrant colors 2.
Swallowtail caterpillars go through multiple generations each year, evolving from egg to caterpillar, then pupa to butterfly. Remarkably, they have black stripes and yellow-orange dots running along their bodies, which could be a defense mechanism to ward off predators.
These caterpillars need to be cautious when selecting their meals, as certain plants like poison hemlock can be toxic to them. However, they do their part in nature by eating organic waste and recycling it back into the ecosystem.
Once it’s time to transform, Swallowtail caterpillars create a cocoon where they’ll undergo metamorphosis. You might even spot one in your garden if you have plants like zinnias or other flowers that attract butterflies.
Another species, the Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillar, prefers plants from the citrus family and has a unique appearance with its black and red coloration 3. Like the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, caterpillars from the parsley family such as the Black Swallowtail play an important ecological role, consuming leaves and flowers from plants like dill, fennel, and parsley 4.
Some Swallowtail caterpillars go through a period of diapause, where they pause their development when environmental conditions are unfavorable. This helps ensure they’ll have a better chance of survival. Places like the M&T Bank Butterflies Live! exhibit showcase different caterpillar species, including the Swallowtail, providing interesting encounters for visitors.
In conclusion, Swallowtail caterpillars are unique insects with fascinating features and behaviors. By being aware of their needs and preferences, you can help protect their populations.
Footnotes
- Black Swallowtail Caterpillar Defense Mechanism – Smithsonian ↩ ↩2
- Black Swallowtail Caterpillar Fact Sheet – Master Gardener Program ↩ ↩2
- Swallowtails of Kentucky – University of Kentucky Entomology ↩ ↩2
- Black Swallowtail Caterpillar Defense Mechanism – Smithsonian ↩ ↩2
- Black Swallowtail Caterpillar Fact Sheet – Master Gardener Program ↩
92 Comments. Leave new
OMG So cute! He looks like a cartoon snake!
I got the impression that “Kimmy from Monrovia” was getting you to do her homework for her, not that she found an Invasive Exotic. 🙁
Thanks for indicating your impression. In retrospect, you might be correct. We do not like doing homework for students who need to learn to build research skills, but that did not override our interest in this exotic species that is outside its normal range.
Regarding the size illusion: I think the butterfly is not sitting on the rock, but flying in front of it. If you look at the legs, you can see that there is water spray between them and the rock, and there is also no spray in front of the butterfly. If the butterfly was indeed sitting on the rock, it would have been swept away instantly. It is a quite effective optical illusion though–I did a double take when I first saw it.
I have found two of these on my Ruby Red Grapefruit tree on Maui. Can I move them to another plant? They are denuding my tree. Thanks for the info, I have been scouring the internet to try to identify these guys!
You would need to move them to a tree that is on the list of food plants. Another citrus should work fine. Leaves will grow back.
What upper-midwest (Missouri) moths/butterflies would aggregate like this? I’ve found them from time to time –but none since I’d become a potential predator. The ruby-spotted swallowtail is one I’d not seen before.
Looks like a larva from the Sphingidae genus Madoryx. Bill Oehlke has three species/subspecies listed for Mexico.
I am unsure which species this is, I would ask Bill for a species ID.
Thanks for the comment Ryan. Karl who frequently assists us with exotic identifications has also come to the same conclusion.
Thanks, everyone! I saw the link that Karl put up and that is definitely our bug!! I can’t wait to tell everyone what we found!!
Glad we were able to be of assistance.
Wow, thanks for the info, guys! Absolutely fascinating stuff, and it’s nice to know I wasn’t going crazy. 🙂
Do you still have them on your tree?
Thank you for posting these pictures! I found a brown swallowtail caterpillar yesterday and was not sure how far along he was in his progression towards chrysalis-dom, but in finding your site I was much more clear on the likely timeline. Late last night, after I put a twig in his enclosure, he found a spot and this morning he’s in the 4th picture phase. I’m excited to watch him transform. Thank you!
Umm I’m in class doing a research paper on the pink potted cattleheart. And I don’t think that it was apart of the cattleheart family I thing that it was a moth. Not a butterfly.
This is really interesting stuff I never knew. My twin is doing this thing about Costa Rica Butterflies with tissue paper and wire. She needs to know we’re the butterflies or located,lifespan,diet,and other interesting things.
We are not certain what you are requesting from us. The Cattleheart Butterfly is found in Costa Rica. According to the Butterflies and Moths of North America: “Caterpillar Hosts: Pipevines (genus Aristolochia). Adult Food: Not reported.” We assume adults must have favorite flowering plants to take nectar from. Your twin should be able to find a wealth of information in our archives should she decide to do the research her project requires.
I saw a swallow tail moth in my apartment as well! I’ve never seen a moth so HUGE!! It was just hanging out on my balcony window, and it was beautiful. As with ‘sodaprincess’, I live in Singapore.
Thanks for the report.
I interacted with a Tropical Swallowtail Moth this morning at my condo in Tiong Barhu. It ended up in my lift so I had to catch and release on the way to work. An amazing animal!
Thanks for letting us know about it.
You can see plenty of them at the National Library Building in Victoria Street, Singapore. They are all over the window panes. On 19 May, I spotted easily at least 30 of these species.
It sounds like 2014 will be a year to see the Tropical Swallowtail Moths.
Saw this moth yesterday at my place in Bishan 🙂
I saw this beautiful moth two days ago in Joo Chiat road
We’re seeing an explosion of these moths in Singapore in the past week. They’re everywhere even downtown in the CBD area., on the outside walls of high rise office blocks, condos, etc. It’s nice to see nature flourishing in the big city.
http://singaporeseen.stomp.com.sg/singaporeseen/this-urban-jungle/have-you-seen-these-huge-moths-around-theyre-staying-til-july
We would love if you could send images to our Ask What’s That Bug? link.
I sighted one at the basement car park of my estate in Mountbatten area, Singapore. Another just flew into my living room. It’s pretty small- about 10cm wing span. Have been getting a lot of species of moths in my apartment lately. I guess May is breeding season for moths?
May 2014 does appear to be breeding season for the Tropical Swallowtail Moths in Singapore.
My sons were excited to see this huge moth in the corridor outside our apartment (Punggol, in the north-east of Singapore).
The increase in sightings is thought to be related to bird migration periods and weather.
Whatever the cause, these creatures are wonderful to see.
Thanks for adding to our sightings report.
One of these gorgeous moths has been in my garden off Dunearn Road for a few days now. I hope he stays longer. Such a treat! I don’t think I can get a photo of him but if I do I’ll post it here.
Thank you for your information.
oh just great you guys enjoy the beauty – I have a PHOBIA of Moths and flying insects, ill have to be vigilant and pray it does not fly anywhere near me.
We are sorry to hear you cannot appreciate the wonder of the world of moths.
Dear Moth Phobia, I too cannot enjoy nor appreciate “the wonders of nature” when it comes to moths, butterflies & lizards and to make it worse off, these species flew into my flat in Singapore on 2 occasions while I had to hide in my room almost the whole day. 🙁
Hi, I did saw it in my gals school when fetching them at sengkang, 1 big one inside of International Plaza Bldg. First time ever saw it. My GaL says they are so beautiful.
Yes, they are quite lovely.
They`re everywhere! It is like the most beautiful moth i`ve seen. They`re everywhere, even in sota. My friends are scared of this moth due to it`s size and they think it`ll bite but i`ve told them otherwise. May i ask, Does it come every year? because for the past few years i`ve only sighted a few of them here and there and not at a particular time of the year.
Like many insects, the lifespan of a Tropical Swallowtail Moth is short, under a year from egg to adult, so each year there is a new generation. Some years there are larger populations than other years, and all indications are that this year will result in one of the highest populations in recent years.
I’ve just witnessed a female lyssa zampa in my school in Tampines a few days ago. Unfortunately, one of the wings was bitten by birds, so me and my classmates brought her to the eco garden (in school).
Thank you for adding to our list of reported sightings.
I saw two of these wonderful moths just outside my office window in Raffles Place. Another two just a floor below. I saw another one clinging on one sign of Burger King outlet near our building. All in all I have at least seven sightings of these curious moths (Four of them just near our flat). Alas, I also saw a couple of these moth’s wings scattered on the floor near our place like something ripped the poor creature apart. 🙁
So far, of my years of stay here in Singapore, this is my first time to see such species of moths.
Thank you for reporting your sightings.
We live in Bacolod and have a specimen in our Coffee Shop
I’ve seen these huge moth 4 times this May. Unfortunately only 1 of these i saw was alive. Today i saw one of it in the MRT, dead. Do most of the mothes die in S’pore?
Many moths die within a few days or weeks naturally, but when there are large numbers of them, many will meet with untimely ends through accidents or predation. We don’t think you finding dead moths is unusual.
Saw that moth in my void deck week ago, 2 times in a week.
woodlands area
Hi,
I thought it’s just me. But I’m glad I am not the only one crazily looking for answers why we’re seeing these big moths in SG after so many years of living here. I found one in my bathroom last week of May, then one more, day before in the night in my living room. Yesterday as I stepped out of my house, I found one near the building lift in Melville Park, Simei. When I reached office, I found 7-10 of them on the entrance doors of Samsung Hub, Church Street. But glad to know the possible reasons. They’re indeed a beautiful specie :-).
Thanks, Diana.
Thanks so much for providing your observations.
Hi. I had one lyssa zampa flew into my office space. How can i chase it out? It is disturbing to have it around as i am a moth freak out. And generally what is its lifespan?Please help! Thanks!
While walking through a couple of streets, my sons n i spotted 6! Perhaps weather is too hot for them thats why they are out of their udual habitat.
See them like rver other day tis jun
This moth is all over my school in Malaysia.
I heard that this moth can spread disease,can you help me to find out the true ?
That sounds like an unsubstantiated rumor to us.
Does this type of moth has poison?
Many people say it has bacteria.
Please cite your sources. Bacteria is everywhere. The Tropical Swallowtail Moth is not a harmful species.
We have seen many lyssa zampa moths around our condo, my son’s school, golf course etc in Kuala Lumpur. We are trying to catch it and study it. My son has caught it on his arm and so far not infected with itchiness. We quickly asked him to wash his hands with soap. Anyone with more information about it please share.
I live in Gulfport Mississippi ‘ I too was on my pouch looking for bugs with my young kids and I too had two of these on my lemon tree. Yes here in Mississippi . The the fillers looked like red dots until we touched it with a stick. It bent his body and the two fillers came out as it waved them around.
The Orchard Swallowtail is not a North American species, and we have not yet heard of any accidental introductions in Mississippi. The most likely Swallowtail Caterpillar to find feeding on citrus in North America is the Giant Swallowtail Caterpillar, known as an Orange Dog, and though it does possess an osmeterium, it looks nothing like the Orchard Swallowtail Caterpillar.
How do I control these caterpillars. I have them all over my 3 fruit trees and they are devasting the trees. They are the big brown and ivory ones and many sizes of the smaller brown and Ivory ones. Do they eat the fruit as well as the leaves?
How did they get here ? I live in Surprise, AZ.
We don’t know for certain that Chinese Swallowtails have invaded Arizona, but we know for certain that you are in the range of Giant Swallowtails that have caterpillars called Orange Dogs that feed on the leaves of citrus.
How do I control these caterpillars. I have them all over my 3 fruit trees and they are devasting the trees. They are the big brown and ivory ones and many sizes of the smaller brown and Ivory ones. Do they eat the fruit as well as the leaves?
How did they get here ? I live in Surprise, AZ.
we found one of these today on a kaffir lime tree in Sydney, NSW we have pictures if you want us to send them?
You may send images using the Ask What’s That Bug? link on our site.
Their lifespans are quite short. I think around 2 weeks. Not sure though. Hope it helps
This is actually a Cattleheart (Parides sp.) which is also a Swallowtail. The red on the body is the best ID mark to look for.
Thanks so much for the correction. We will update the posting accordingly.
I have one that has fallen from its original place where it pupated/cocooned since beginning of Oct. Is it dead?
We cannot say with any certainty. It may have been knocked loose and still alive.
I don’t know if this will be any help to you, but the closest thing in my African Butterfly book is a Black Swordtail (Graphium Colonna). It has the pale blue colour, 4 lines nearest the body, the shortest on the forewing being wavy, and the forth (and longest) continuing into the hindwing. as well it has two red spots on the hindwings on the inside curve, and quite long tails that are black with white tips. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the correction on this nine year old posting.
It is also called as Laos Brown Butterfly.
please can you tell me what plant/s the Urainia fulgens feed from
Many thanks
Please note that you have misspelled the scientific name of the Swallowtail Moth which could negatively impact your ability to locate information you desire. Texas Entomology has a bibliography of papers on the host plants of the Swallowtail Moth and there is text on the site indicating plants in the genus Omphalea, family Euphorbiaceae are hosts for the caterpillars. If you are requesting information on hosts for the adult moths, the individual pictured on Texas Entomology is feeding on butterfly bush, Buddleia.
please can you tell me what plant/s the Urainia fulgens feed from
Many thanks
Thanks for the info. You kept me from squishing a butterfly larvae! I pick them off my Meyer lemon and put them on my dwarf orange – that never fruits. At least it can raise butterflies!
Big Island, Hawaii
interesting. I have a Meyers Lemon tree, but have never seen a caterpillar. I would like to see one.
Thanks for the info. You kept me from squishing a butterfly larvae! I pick them off my Meyer lemon and put them on my dwarf orange – that never fruits. At least it can raise butterflies!
Big Island, Hawaii
Hi, I found several of these catapillars today but I am in China. They were also on a Kaffir lime tree. I want to know if they eat any other kind of leaves as we only have 1 of these trees that was brought in and there are not many leaves so I worry about their food source…
How can I encourage Chinese Swallow Tail butterflies to come to our backyaard? I would like to see them breed and provide plants that they use for feeding.
I just saw one on my lime tree
I just
Planted if they eat the leaves I don’t want them on my tree. How do I get rid of them?
Looks like a Common Mime caterpillar(Papilionidae: Chilasa [Papilio] clytia).
http://www.natureloveyou.sg/Minibeast-Butterfly/Butterfly_Chilasa%20clytia%20clytia/Main.html
Thanks so much for this information Karl. We will update the posting.
Looks like a Common Mime caterpillar(Papilionidae: Chilasa [Papilio] clytia).
http://www.natureloveyou.sg/Minibeast-Butterfly/Butterfly_Chilasa%20clytia%20clytia/Main.html
Thanks Karl and bugman too for information on the caterpillar.
I hope you can tell me what I should do! My swallow tail caterpillar attached his bottom to the stick and has the silk attached around the top part but his lower half came un-glued from the stick he was on. Have you experienced this ever? Will he be ok if left alone or should I try doing something to help prop him up?
At this point, we believe the less you do, the better the outcome will be.
I can’t wait to see the caterpillar! I’ve been watching a beautiful female. I have a lot of citrus trees and would love to see more of them.
Hi, We live in Brisbane, Australia and found a large one on our lime tree nibbling away.
Have 5 of these caterpillars on my lemon tree that I have had since 1984 and take in the house inwinter. Should I leave them or what? Endangered? Will they kill my tree? Help. In Illinois.
Thank you so much! My husband randomly discovered a double tailed swallowtail caterpillar today whole picking our green beans in our garden. It was doing it’s walk about just as you say and it had already turned brown. This was super helpful and we learned so much! It is now located in a safe space on our Kale plant and it might actually stick there. It looks comfortable in that location. We will see how it goes. We are in the Seattle, WA area. Thanks again! Funny timing with it being 9/22/2023. It’s right on schedule!