Palamedes Swallowtail
Papilio palamedes
A large dark swallowtail of Florida wetlands and forests whose caterpillars depend heavily on redbay and swampbay trees.
Palamedes Swallowtails occur in wooded wetlands, hammocks, flatwoods, gardens, and forest edges across much of Florida. Adults visit many flowers, while females seek redbay and related native trees for egg laying.
Planting native nectar sources and protecting redbay supports the full life cycle. Laurel wilt disease has reduced host trees in many areas, creating an important habitat concern.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Mangroves and Salt Marshes, Pine Flatwoods and Sandhills, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Residential Areas
Area / Range:
Florida Panhandle, North Florida, Central Florida, South Florida
Diet:
Caterpillars eat redbay, swampbay, and related laurels. Adults drink nectar from thistles, azaleas, pickerelweed, lantana, and other flowers.
Behavior:
Adults fly strongly along woodland openings and wetland edges. Males visit damp soil for minerals, while females place eggs singly on host-plant leaves.
Daytime
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Warm sunny days from spring through fall near redbay trees and flowering wetland edges.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Not listed, but loss of redbay host trees to laurel wilt threatens local abundance.
Safety Level:
Low
Safety Information:
Harmless to people and pets. Avoid handling wings and do not apply insecticides to host or nectar plants.
Benefits to Property:
Pollinates flowers and adds a highly visible native butterfly to landscapes containing suitable host and nectar plants.
Property Concerns:
Caterpillar feeding causes limited leaf loss on host plants and rarely threatens a healthy tree.
Fun Fact:
- Its caterpillars resemble bird droppings when young.
- Older larvae display false eyespots.
- The species is closely tied to Florida bay trees.
Wildlife Laws:
Collection may be restricted on public lands and protected areas. Obtain permission before collecting and never remove wildlife from parks where prohibited.
Identification:
Large dark brown to black butterfly with two bands of yellow spots, tails on the hindwings, and blue and orange markings near the rear margins. The underside carries a yellow stripe through the hindwing.