: Frequently found in citrus groves and gardens.
The ( Papilio ornythion ) is a striking butterfly native to Mexico and Guatemala, occasionally appearing as a rare stray in the southern United States. Often confused with the common Giant Swallowtail, this species is distinguished by its all-black tails and a unique wing pattern where yellow bands meet at the tip rather than crossing in an "X". Visual Characteristics Download papilio ornythion gd592e4917 640 jpg
: Females appear in two forms: one looks nearly identical to the male, while the other is mostly black with gray-green marginal spots on the hindwing. Habitat & Lifecycle : Frequently found in citrus groves and gardens
: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers like lantana, echinacea, and buddleia . Visual Characteristics : Females appear in two forms:
: Primarily found in Mexico and Guatemala . It is a rare visitor to Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and occasionally as far north as Kansas.
: The upper side of the wings is primarily black with a pale yellow band crossed by black veins.