Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly Caterpillar

Found in deciduous woods, gardens, and parks throughout North America and parts of Asia.

Herbivorous. Feeds on leaves of various host plants including wild cherry, birch, tulip tree, and willow.

Uses mimicry for protection; young caterpillars look like bird droppings, while older ones have large eyespots to resemble snake heads. They also possess an osmeterium, a Y-shaped organ that emits a foul odor when threatened.

Harmless to humans. Benefits the ecosystem as pollinators once they reach adulthood; caterpillars serve as a food source for birds and other insects.