The Zebra Swallowtail

Papilio marcellus Cramer

Color:

P. marcellus is a very unique species with black and white banding patterns on all four wings. The Zebra Swallowtail is not only characterized by its black and white coloration, resembling the stripes on a zebra, but by its long tails also. Spring specimens of early April are small, with short wings, short tails and restricted dark and extensive light markings (Klots, 1979, 179). The later spring and summer specimens, emerging in early June, are much larger with longer wings, somewhat heavier dark markings, and more white on the tail-tips (Klots, 1979, 179). In addition, most Zebra Swallowtails have red spots and red bands of color on lower wing surfaces (red spots located near the tails; red bands on lower wing surfaces primarily in early spring species) (Klots, 1979, 179).

Size:

The Zebra Swallowtail is 3.75-4.5 inches in width (Klots, 1979, 179), and 5.0-6.5 inches in height (depending whether it is an early or late variety).