The Anise Swallowtail is a bold yellow-and-black butterfly of western North America, named for its larvae's fondness for plants in the carrot family including non-native anise. It is one of the few large butterflies that thrives in urban environments, nectaring in city gardens. Its caterpillar features orange and black banding and produces a pungent scent when disturbed.
Best time to see a Anise Swallowtail
The best time to see a Anise Swallowtail is April–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 21,886 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Anise Swallowtail? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Anise Swallowtail sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an Anise Swallowtail?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.