Black swallowtail vs Giant swallowtail
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a black swallowtail from a giant swallowtail, and whether either one bites or stings.
Black swallowtail
Papilio polyxenes
Giant swallowtail
Papilio cresphontes
≠The key differences
Black swallowtail is smaller with a more checkered pattern and lacks the large broad yellow banding and larger wing shape of Papilio cresphontes.
⚖︎Side by side
| Black swallowtail | Giant swallowtail | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Size | 6.5-10 cm wingspan | 100-160 mm wingspan |
| Colours | Black, Yellow, Blue, Orange | Black, Yellow, Brown (larva), Green (pupa/larva) |
| Family | Papilionidae | Papilionidae |
| Habitat | Open areas, gardens, meadows, roadsides and fields where host plants (Apiaceae and some Rutaceae) grow | Open woodlands, edges, gardens, orchards and suburban areas where host plants (Rutaceae) occur. |
| Range | Southern Canada and most of the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, plus the Southwest; south through Mexico and Central America to northern South America | Eastern and central North America, from Florida and the Gulf states north to southern Canada, plus parts of the Caribbean; most common east of the Rocky Mountains and expanding northward. Populations from the southwestern United States south to Central America are now treated as a separate species, the western giant swallowtail (Papilio rumiko). |
| Active | Spring through fall (multiple broods in warm areas); diurnal (active during daylight) | Spring to fall in temperate regions (multiple broods in warm areas); adults active during the day, especially in sunny weather. |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot a black swallowtail
- Black wings with a band of yellow spots across forewing; hindwings have blue scaling and orange submarginal spots
- Distinctive swallowtail 'tails' on the hindwings
- Caterpillars are initially dark and white-banded (bird-dropping mimic), later becoming green with black bands and orange spots
- Wingspan typically 6.5-10 cm
🔍How to spot a giant swallowtail
- Very large black wings with broad yellow bands and spots; hindwings have long tails.
- Underwing has yellow patterning and a small red/blue spot near the tail on the hindwing.
- Caterpillars are chunky and mimic bird droppings when young; later instars are larger and plain brown or green.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a black swallowtail and a giant swallowtail?
Black swallowtail is smaller with a more checkered pattern and lacks the large broad yellow banding and larger wing shape of Papilio cresphontes.
Is a black swallowtail or a giant swallowtail more dangerous?
Black swallowtail: Non-toxic. Giant swallowtail: Non-toxic. Adults do not bite or sting and are harmless. Adults and caterpillars are not dangerous to people.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.