Black Swallowtail

Also called Parsley Caterpillar. Young caterpillars are black with a white saddle, later becoming smooth and green with black bands and yellow spots, growing to approx 2 inches. It has an orange osmeterium. Bad tasting to predators as it absorbs toxins from the foodplant. It eats Queen Anne's lace, carrot, parsley and dill. It overwinters as a chrysalis. It is found in southern Canada and throughout the eastern United States, as well as the south-western states and Mexico.

The Life Cycle of a Butterfly  EGG - After mating, the adult female selects a host plant on which to lay her eggs. CATERPILLAR - After the eggs hatch, the caterpillar eating machines begin to eat and grow. CHRYSALIS - Once the caterpillar finishes growing, it finds a protected spot to molt into a chrysalis. BUTTERFLY - After about 10-14 days for most species (unless its a butterfly that has over-wintered), a brand new butterfly will emergy.