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Black Swallowtail — printable fact sheet
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Black Swallowtail
Papilio polyxenes
The Black Swallowtail is a striking butterfly native to North America, recognized by its velvety black wings adorned with rows of yellow spots and, in females, a distinctive blue band on the hindwings. This species is known for its impressive mimicry and vibrant coloration, whic…
Did you know?
- When threatened, Black Swallowtail caterpillars can extend orange, forked glands called osmeteria that emit a foul odor to deter attackers.
- Black Swallowtail caterpillars resemble bird droppings in their early stages, providing camouflage from predators. Adult males are highly territorial and will chase away rivals from their chosen perches. The species is the state butterfly of Oklahoma and New Jersey in the United States.
What I learned
Draw the black swallowtail
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