Posted in Arizona
August 06, 2020
Few People Know That The Two-Tailed Swallowtail Is The Official Insect Of The Grand Canyon State And Here’s What You Should Know
Arizona is home to a plethora of different bugs, but did you know we have an official state insect? It’s the two-tailed swallowtail – a beautiful butterfly that’s an absolute marvel to behold.
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It's the largest swallowtail in western North America, with a wingspan of up to 6.5 inches.

This fools predators into attacking the rear of the butterfly, affording it a chance to escape.

Among the key distinguishing factors are narrower black stripes, two tails on each hindwing as opposed to one, and a black "slit pupil" in the eyespot.

You'll see the insect from Guatemala to the western U.S. to as far up as Saskatchewan.

The butterflies also use green ash planted along city streets.

Adults fly during spring and summer in one brood.

The two-tailed swallowtail doesn't typically crossbreed with related species, unlike the western, eastern, and Canadian tiger swallowtails.
Have you ever seen a two-tailed swallowtail? Tell us what you think about the Arizona state insect, and check out our previous article to learn about more bugs to keep an eye out for: These 10 Bugs Found In Arizona Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine.
Address: Arizona, USA