Green Nature

Swallowtail Butterfly

picture of an anise swallowtail butterfly

The Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon) is a fairly widespread West Coast butterfly.

The caterpillars feed on plants in the parsley and carrot family (Umbelliferae). They might even eat some carrot leaves from the grocery story as long as they do not contain pesticides.

Anise generally are among the first swallowtails to appear in the spring.

Generally they exhibit territorial behavior, sticking closely to a small area. Once sighted, patience pays, because they often perch in sunny places amenable to butterfly photography.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels