The zebra swallowtail (Eurytudes Marcellus) inhabits all of Georgia’s 159 counties.  It typically flies from late March into August; however, in my neck of the woods (middle Georgia), I see tiger swallowtails more often in early spring than at that at any other time of the year.

       The zebra swallowtail is easy to identify as it has a black and white stripes and long tails.  This handsome butterfly has a 2½-4” wingspan.  No other butterfly in Georgia looks anything like it.

      While this species prefers woodlands and shrubby areas, it will venture into backyards. This is particularly true if you live in suburban or rural areas.  Zebra swallowtails are less often seen in urban backyards. Most often, you will see a zebra swallowtail flying by close to the ground.  Much to our chagrin it will pass by without giving us a chance to enjoy its beauty.  However, there are ways in which you can enhance your chances of seeing one up close. 

       One of the best ways to accomplish this is to set out its host plant.   This butterfly’s caterpillar host is a small tree known as the pawpaw.

       You can also plant nectar plants. Zebra swallowtails prefer to feed at flowers that do not have long tubular throats.  They also seem to nectar most often at white flowers.

       The best way to lure male zebra swallowtails into your yard is to create a spot where they can stage a puddle party. This special habitat feature is a location where sand, soil, or gravel is wet.  Sometimes several males can be seen “puddling” at the same time.  They gather at such locations in search of salts and amino acids that are beneficial to their reproduction.