Black Swallowtail

Natural Habitat

Open areas including fields, meadows, parks, gardens, and roadsides across North America.

Diet & Feeding

Adults drink nectar from flowers like milkweed and phlox; larvae (caterpillars) eat plants in the carrot family (Apiaceae) such as dill, parsley, and fennel.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal flyers that exhibit hilltopping behavior where males seek high points to find mates. They undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial as a pollinator for many wildflower species. While larvae may feed on garden herbs, they are rarely significant pests and are valued by wildlife enthusiasts.

Identified on: 5/11/2026