Red-spotted Purple

Deciduous or mixed forests, forest edges, meadows, and gardens; often found perched on trees or bushes.

Adults feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, dung, and carrion; larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves of wild cherry, birch, and poplars.

Diurnal; known for its Batesian mimicry of the poisonous Pipevine Swallowtail to avoid predators. Males often patrol territories for mates.

Beneficial as a pollinator and indicators of a healthy ecosystem; they pose no risk to humans or pets.