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Black Swallowtail Caterpillar - 5th instar
Papilio polyxenes
42.9615, -85.6557
Field Notes
Description:
Swallowtail caterpillars have a defense mechanism, called an osmeterium, located behind the head. The osmeterium, which resembles a snake's tongue, is normally hidden until the caterpillar becomes disturbed. This gland emits a strong odor to repel predators.
Habitat:
Southern Canada - Mexico. Host Plants: parsley family (Umbelliferae) including carrot, parsley, dill, fennel and Queen Anne's lace and some members of the Rutaceae (Ruta graveolens and Thamnosma texana).
Notes:
Image 3 is of the first or second instar of this caterpillar on July 20, 2011. All were observed on Fennel.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedFebruary 14, 2012
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