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The Giant
Swallowtail is the largest butterfly in Ontario. These butterflies are
very local and they are limited to areas in south western Ontario where
the food plants grow. An isolated colony may exist as far north as
Port Elgin. |
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Eggs
are usually found on Prickly Ash or Hop Tree in southern Ontario. Unlike
most swallowtails, they are almost always laid on the upper side of leaves.
They newly hatched larvae emerge in about five days. |
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Full grown
Giant Swallowtail larvae
resemble bird droppings and are known as "Orange Dogs" because
they can damage citrus groves. In Ontario these caterpillars eat only
wild plants and are most frequently encountered during September. |
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The chrysalis
over winters in Ontario and can remain dormant from September until the
following May. In the summer, Giant Swallowtail chrysalises develop
quickly, producing adults within 14 to 21 days. |
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