Spicebush Swallowtail

Wingspan: 4 inches

Overview: Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus) is in the Papilionidae family. They are strong fliers, with tail-like apendages on the rear of the wings. General Habitat: Semi‑open woods, meadows.

Caterpillar & Host Plants

Larvae feed ONLY on Sassafras and Spicebush and possibly other trees. Young caterpillars resemble bird droppings. Older caterpillars have 2 large spots on the top of their heads, and resemble green snakes. They also have an osmeterium which not only looks like a forked snake’s tongue, but also emits a foul odor.