Butterflies

The zebra swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus) is a large, black and white butterfly with long tails on its hindwings. It is found in Arkansas and throughout much of the eastern United States. The zebra swallowtail's host plant is the pawpaw tree, and its caterpillars feed on the leaves of the tree. The zebra swallowtail has two broods in Arkansas, one in the spring and one in the summer. The spring brood is smaller and has shorter tails than the summer brood. The zebra swallowtail can be seen flying from March to October in Arkansas. It is not considered to be a threatened or endangered species in Arkansas, but its habitat is being threatened by development and deforestation. It is important to protect the zebra swallowtail's habitat in order to ensure the survival of this beautiful butterfly.

Here are some additional facts about the zebra swallowtail in Arkansas:

• The wingspan of the zebra swallowtail is 2.5 to 4 inches.

• The butterfly's flight is slow and fluttery.

• The zebra swallowtail is a nectar feeder and will visit a variety of flowers, including milkweed, clover, and thistle.

• The male zebra swallowtail has a patch of scent scales on his hindwings that he uses to attract females.

• The zebra swallowtail is a popular butterfly with butterfly enthusiasts.

If you are lucky enough to see a zebra swallowtail in Arkansas, be sure to take a moment to appreciate this beautiful butterfly.

The red-spotted purple admiral is a beautiful butterfly that is found in Arkansas in the spring and autumn. It is a forest butterfly that is also commonly seen in wooded suburban areas. The red-spotted purple admiral is usually found further south than the white admiral, in deciduous or mixed forests, moist uplands, valley bottoms, and coastal plains. It is not an abundant species, and is most often seen in woodlands and along streams and marsh land. The red-spotted purple admiral is a North American butterfly species in the cosmopolitan genus Limenitis. It is considered to be a Batesian mimic of the poisonous pipe vine swallowtail, Battus philenor (Linnaeus). Although the red-spotted purple is not poisonous, looking like a toxic butterfly works to their advantage by keeping away predators such as birds. Adult butterflies drink nectar from flowers, water from puddles, tree sap, and juices from rotting fruits. They are likely to be found on or near host plants for their caterpillars, which include willows, elms, and birches. The red-spotted purple admiral is a fascinating butterfly that plays an important role in the ecosystem. It is a beautiful addition to any garden or backyard, and is sure to bring a smile to anyone who sees it.

The eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is a large, beautiful butterfly found in Arkansas and throughout much of North America. It is one of the most common butterflies in the state, and can be seen flying from late spring to early fall.

The eastern tiger swallowtail is easily recognizable by its bright yellow and black coloration. The males have a black band across the middle of their wings, while the females have a series of black spots. The underside of the wings is pale yellow with black stripes.

The eastern tiger swallowtail is a strong flier and can travel long distances. It is often seen nectaring on flowers, such as milkweed, aster, and thistle. The caterpillars of the eastern tiger swallowtail feed on the leaves of a variety of plants, including citrus trees, willows, and poplars.

The eastern tiger swallowtail is an important part of the ecosystem. It helps to pollinate flowers and is a food source for birds and other animals. It is also a popular butterfly for people to watch and admire.

Here are some additional facts about the eastern tiger swallowtail in Arkansas:

• The largest population of eastern tiger swallowtails in the state is found in the Ozark Mountains.

• The butterfly is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN.

• The eastern tiger swallowtail is a migratory butterfly, and some individuals may travel as far as Mexico for the winter.

• The caterpillar of the eastern tiger swallowtail is poisonous to predators.

If you see an eastern tiger swallowtail in Arkansas, be sure to admire its beauty and appreciate its important role in the ecosystem.