Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1338489

Spicebush Swallowtail
Papilio troilus

Observation date: August 09, 2022
Submitted by: EddieGarrity
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This butterfly appeared to be depositing eggs on the underside of the outermost and lowest leaves on a Sassafras tree. It never stayed still. It was always fluttering, even when it appeared to be depositing eggs. I took several pictures. I couldn't get very close, but every time I thought it might be flying away, it wheeled around again and visited more leaves. I waited by the tree for it to return each time. It is the only sassafras tree in the immediate area. I had planted this sassafras tree hoping it would attract Spicebush Swallowtail butterflies.
Status: Resident
Verified by: drerbium
Verified date: August 14, 2022
Coordinator notes: None.
Checklist region(s): United States, Virginia, Alexandria