Invertebrates
Two-Tailed Swallowtail
Papilio multicaudata · also called two-tailed swallowtails, two-tailed tiger swallowtail
Gliding on a broad wingspan through a western mountain canyon, a two-tailed swallowtail flashes its distinctive double-tailed hindwings, one of the largest and most recognisable butterflies found anywhere across the western United States.
Overview
The two-tailed swallowtail, Papilio multicaudata, is a large, striking butterfly native to mountain canyons and forest habitat across a broad range of the western United States and into Mexico. Its distinctive double-tailed hindwings, considerable size, and status as the official state butterfly of Arizona make it one of the more visually memorable and behaviourally recognisable swallowtails in North America.
Twice the tail of most swallowtails
Where most swallowtail butterflies make do with a single tail extension per hindwing, the two-tailed swallowtail doubles up, a simple but distinctive anatomical quirk that sets it apart at a glance from nearly every other swallowtail sharing its range.
Status
Least Concern — widespread and common across suitable mountain canyon and forest habitat throughout the western United States.
Two-Tailed Swallowtail: common questions
Why is it called the two-tailed swallowtail?
This species displays two slender tail extensions on each hindwing, rather than the single tail typical of most other swallowtail species, a distinctive double-tail feature clearly visible at rest or in flight that gives the species its common name.
Why is the two-tailed swallowtail the state butterfly of Arizona?
This species was designated the official state butterfly of Arizona in recognition of its large size, one of the biggest butterflies found across the western United States, combined with its striking yellow-and-black pattern and distinctive double-tailed hindwings, making it a fitting and visually memorable state symbol.
How big does a two-tailed swallowtail get?
This species has a notably large wingspan, making it one of the largest butterflies found across the western United States, comparable to or exceeding several other large swallowtail relatives found in the same region.
Where does the two-tailed swallowtail live?
This species is native to mountain canyons and forest habitat across a broad range of the western United States and into Mexico, generally favouring areas with suitable host trees and shrubs such as ash and chokecherry for its caterpillar to feed on.