The Giant Swallowtail is North America's largest butterfly, with a wingspan reaching nearly 6 inches and distinctive crossing yellow bands on dark brown wings. Its caterpillar, known as the 'orange dog,' mimics bird droppings for camouflage and is considered a pest on citrus crops. Adults are powerful fliers that soar along forest edges and through gardens.
Best time to see a Giant Swallowtail
The best time to see a Giant Swallowtail is July–September, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 26,060 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Giant Swallowtail? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Giant Swallowtail sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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