© Joe Krieg

Meyers Gulch, Boulder County

Appearance: This small variable swallowtail (there are at least 5 sub-species) is usually black with a small to medium yellow line or series of dots in the postmedian region of the upper wing. The hindwing has iridescent blue spots and orange eye spots with black pupils. The abdomen is mostly black; tails can be very short. Puddles and hilltops.

Size: : Large, 2 1/2 to 3 inches

Habitat: Dry canyons, washes and mountainous areas.

Season: Late spring to early summer

Larval Foodplant: Wild members of the parsley family

Did You Know...
This species is difficult to find and photograph for several reasons: rapid flight, frequents rugged terrain and difficult to approach(Brock, 2003).