Zebra Swallowtail

Eurytides marcellus

The Zebra Swallowtail is an uncommon stray in Wisconsin, and may be looked for in the southern counties. Its larval food is the Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), which is not native to Wisconsin. Notice the difference between the fresh individuals from North Carolina and the rather worn specimen, missing part of a tail, that I took in Florida.

Identifying characteristics

Above: White with black stripes, triangular wings, and a long tail. The sexes are nearly alike. Below: Similar to the top but with a red stripe bordered by black on the hindwing.

Similar species

This species should not be confused with any other Wisconsin butterfly.

Habitat

Open, brushy woodland areas where Pawpaw grows.

Flight

Two generations in northern Illinois: early May and then June/July. Ebner (1970) states that the best time to look for them in Wisconsin is June and early July.

Abundance

Rare. An unlikely stray in Wisconsin.

Early Zebra Swallowtail Sightings

Date	County	Reported by
May 28, 2012	Iowa	Alex Harmon
May 28, 2012	Ozaukee	Matthew Drollinger
May 29, 2012	Dane	Janna Brausen
Jun 1, 2012	Adams	Daniel Keach
Jun 9, 2000	Waukesha	Jim Ebner

Locations