Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 999757

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Papilio glaucus

Observation date: August 04, 2014
Date notes: July 2014
Submitted by: Greimtime816
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: The butterfly has the same flight pattern in the yard, coming from the West traveling East across the yard. It starts with the same flowers pictured, traveling to each one (there are at least 15-20), moves to the Marigolds briefly, then goes to a flowering bush on the East side of the yard and moves on. It will appear back on the West side of the yard and do this a few times before leaving for the day. It comes back every morning at the same time. When the birds are in the garden while it is, the butterfly darts into the air traveling quickly as if mimicking a bird, then back onto the flower tops. The butterfly has been here most of July and now into August. It is visible on days when it is sunny and warm out.
Status: Resident
Verified by: Phillip E. Koenig
Verified date: August 10, 2014
Coordinator notes: None.
Checklist region(s): United States, Missouri, Clay County