Post by trehopr1 on Aug 17, 2021 23:21:26 GMT -8
The Spicebush swallowtail (Papilio troilus) is one of eastern
North Americas resplendent swallowtail species. In terms of size
it tends to be a little smaller than our Tiger swallowtail (P. glaucus)
but, a little larger than our Black swallowtail (P.asterius) -- on average.
Originally, in older literature it was commonly called the Green-clouded
swallowtail. However, somewhere along the way this moniker was changed
more-so to befit what the species host plant of preference is: the spicebush
plant. Perhaps, also "spicebush" just rolls off the tongue better...
In any event, these butterflies are quite attractive in their garb of
green/black (males) and green/blue/black (females); along with red or
orange spots present on the hindwings of both sexes.
The species is widespread and covers many states and yet without the presence
of its host plant it will not be seen. In some states it may only be found
in a few given counties whilst in others its recorded in most counties. A sub-
species from the upper florida keys has been described and is especially notable
for its bold markings and coloration.
Unlike, many of other swallowtail species this one "tends" to prefer deciduous
woods or woody swamps to call home; and it is here where the species flies low
and fast through shaded areas searching for mates and its foodplant.
Here is the lovely male (recent capture):
Here is the female (also a recent capture):
Both sexes, offer a subtle range of variability in the green tones
present, the boldness or reduction of blue (females), as well as
the size or coloration of any orange or red spots on the hindwings.
Wild-captured examples can be tough to find good examples of but,
you can encounter them. The day1 or day2 specimens boast bold
"popping" colors and a "pitch black" back-ground color. However, the
colors dull quickly and that overall black fades to a brownish-black;
losing its depth.
Here I present a small series of males illustrating some of
the variation present:
The 2 at the top (left + right) are actually "bluish-green" in color
and this extends through to the tail tips.
The 2 at the center are" typicals" which have a softer green and
"cloudy" appearance. Spots are variable in size and color.
The bottom (right) example is a fresh hatch featuring an absolute
"pitch black" base color.
I find this species a particular delight. It is also something of a challenge
to encounter here in my state (ILL.) Here, only our far southern counties
and a few of our western counties host the species. All else is dedicated
to agriculture, livestock, or human expansion. The wild spaces keep shrinking !
It takes me about 6 hrs. drive time to get to our southern counties
where I have found the species in several locations. Usually, I just
find a few good ones but, the thrill of the hunt and the anticipation
of what "I may find" keeps me coming back.
North Americas resplendent swallowtail species. In terms of size
it tends to be a little smaller than our Tiger swallowtail (P. glaucus)
but, a little larger than our Black swallowtail (P.asterius) -- on average.
Originally, in older literature it was commonly called the Green-clouded
swallowtail. However, somewhere along the way this moniker was changed
more-so to befit what the species host plant of preference is: the spicebush
plant. Perhaps, also "spicebush" just rolls off the tongue better...
In any event, these butterflies are quite attractive in their garb of
green/black (males) and green/blue/black (females); along with red or
orange spots present on the hindwings of both sexes.
The species is widespread and covers many states and yet without the presence
of its host plant it will not be seen. In some states it may only be found
in a few given counties whilst in others its recorded in most counties. A sub-
species from the upper florida keys has been described and is especially notable
for its bold markings and coloration.
Unlike, many of other swallowtail species this one "tends" to prefer deciduous
woods or woody swamps to call home; and it is here where the species flies low
and fast through shaded areas searching for mates and its foodplant.
Here is the lovely male (recent capture):
Here is the female (also a recent capture):
Both sexes, offer a subtle range of variability in the green tones
present, the boldness or reduction of blue (females), as well as
the size or coloration of any orange or red spots on the hindwings.
Wild-captured examples can be tough to find good examples of but,
you can encounter them. The day1 or day2 specimens boast bold
"popping" colors and a "pitch black" back-ground color. However, the
colors dull quickly and that overall black fades to a brownish-black;
losing its depth.
Here I present a small series of males illustrating some of
the variation present:
The 2 at the top (left + right) are actually "bluish-green" in color
and this extends through to the tail tips.
The 2 at the center are" typicals" which have a softer green and
"cloudy" appearance. Spots are variable in size and color.
The bottom (right) example is a fresh hatch featuring an absolute
"pitch black" base color.
I find this species a particular delight. It is also something of a challenge
to encounter here in my state (ILL.) Here, only our far southern counties
and a few of our western counties host the species. All else is dedicated
to agriculture, livestock, or human expansion. The wild spaces keep shrinking !
It takes me about 6 hrs. drive time to get to our southern counties
where I have found the species in several locations. Usually, I just
find a few good ones but, the thrill of the hunt and the anticipation
of what "I may find" keeps me coming back.
