Spicebush Swallowtail
Pterourus troilus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Family: Papilionidae
Status: Rare stray possibly breeding on ornamentals.
NENHP Ranking: Not listed
Range: The Spicebush Swallowtail is a resident in the southern and eastern United States from eastern Texas to the New England states. From there it strays north to the Canadian border. In Nebraska it has been found in the southeastern quarter of the state.
Larval Hostplant(s): In Nebraska ornamental laurels – Spice bush (Lindera benzoin) and sassafras (Sassafras species).
Broods/Flight Times: Multiple flights in its home range to our southeast.
Overwintering: In its home range this species overwinters as pupae.
Habitat: As a stray it might occur anywhere but will be attracted to it’s larval hostplants when they can be found.
Avg. Wingspan: 3 – 4 inches
Found at:
Similar Species: Black and Pipevine Swallowtails
Notes:
Spicebush Swallowtail, Ansel Oommen, Bugwood.org
