Pale Swallowtail

Open woodlands, mountain canyons, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub across Western North America.

Adults feed on flower nectar from plants like milkweed, thistles, and lilacs. Larvae feed on the leaves of woody plants including buckthorn, alder, and mountain-mahogany.

Features a distinct gliding flight pattern. Males are often seen 'puddling' on damp ground to obtain minerals. They undergo complete metamorphosis, overwintering as a chrysalis.

Non-toxic and poses no risk to humans. Benefits include acting as a vital pollinator for native flora and providing food for birds and other insectivores.