At the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I captured a photo of a gorgeous Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly resting by the side of the auto tour road.
This striking butterfly is a species native to North America and can be found all over the United States. Males have yellow fore-wings with black “tiger stripes,” while females are dimorphic and can have either yellow or black wings. The yellow morph has a noticeable band of blue dots down the hind-wing that makes it look more similar to the male.
Apart from its distinctive appearance, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail plays a critical role as a pollinator. It can be found in various environments such as gardens, meadows, fields, and forests, attracting other beneficial insects like bees and butterflies and playing an essential part in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Interestingly, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is also a crucial indicator of environmental health. Its presence or absence can provide valuable insight into the overall health of an ecosystem, making it a crucial species to monitor.
All in all, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly is a beloved and significant species in North America, with its vibrant colors and crucial role as a pollinator and environmental indicator.