Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio canadensis)

Description: This a large yellow butterfly with black stripes. It is unmistakable the only yellow swallowtail with black stripes recorded in the Maritimes. Wingspan: 53 to 90 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Throughout the Maritimes. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S5. NS: S5. PEI: S5.

Flight Period: Mid May to late July.

Host Plant: A variety of trees including willows (Salix spp.), ashes (Fraxinus spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.).

Notes: The Canadian Tiger Swallowtail is probably the most widespread and recognizable butterfly in the Maritimes. It occurs in most habitats from boreal forests to city gardens. It frequently visits flowers, especially lilacs. It can often be seen mud-puddling in large numbers. Jim Edsall, a Maritime butterfly expert, was once able to place a net over 34 individuals at one time.