Papilio Rtulus - Western Tiger Swallowtail

Papilio Rtulus - Western Tiger Swallowtail

Image Credit: David A. Hofmann

Identification: Upper side of hindwing with upper-most marginal spot yellow or lacking. Underside of forewing with separate yellow spots forming marginal band. Hindwing has narrow marginal spots and no orange tint except for 2 spots near end of inner margin.

Wing Span: 2 3/4 - 4 inches (7 - 10 cm).

Caterpillar Hosts: Leaves of cottonwood and aspen (Populus), willows (Salix), wild cherry (Prunus), and ash (Fraxinus).

Adult Food: Nectar from many flowers including thistles, abelia, California buckeye, zinnia, and yerba santa.

Habitat: Woodlands near rivers and streams, wooded suburbs, canyons, parks, roadsides, and oases.