Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Natural Habitat

Widely found in deciduous forests, woodlands, gardens, parks, and suburban areas across eastern North America.

Diet & Feeding

Adults primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowers. Larvae (caterpillars) feed on the leaves of host trees and shrubs, including wild cherry, sweetbay magnolia, ash, and tulip tree.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are active during the day, flying from flower to flower to collect nectar. Males often 'puddle' on moist ground to extract minerals. Females lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants. The larvae (caterpillars) progress through several instars, feeding on leaves, and eventually pupate. They may overwinter as chrysalises.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Important pollinators for many plant species, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Aesthetic value in gardens and natural areas. Risks: Larvae can cause some defoliation on host trees, but generally not to a damaging extent for healthy mature trees.

Identified on: 8/16/2025