Download Papilio: Ornythion Gd592e4917 640 Jpg

: Young larvae are known to mimic bird droppings to hide from predators.

: Unlike similar species, its tails are wide and entirely black, though some males may show a thin yellow streak on the underside.

: Caterpillars feed on the leaves of citrus trees and other plants in the Rutaceae family. Download papilio ornythion gd592e4917 640 jpg

: Like other swallowtails, the caterpillars possess an osmeterium , a forked orange gland that emits a foul-smelling odor when they feel threatened.

: Females appear in two forms: one looks nearly identical to the male, while the other is mostly black with gray-green marginal spots on the hindwing. Habitat & Lifecycle : Young larvae are known to mimic bird

The ( Papilio ornythion ) is a striking butterfly native to Mexico and Guatemala, occasionally appearing as a rare stray in the southern United States. Often confused with the common Giant Swallowtail, this species is distinguished by its all-black tails and a unique wing pattern where yellow bands meet at the tip rather than crossing in an "X". Visual Characteristics

: The upper side of the wings is primarily black with a pale yellow band crossed by black veins. : Like other swallowtails, the caterpillars possess an

: Primarily found in Mexico and Guatemala . It is a rare visitor to Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and occasionally as far north as Kansas.