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Black Swallowtail Caterpillar
The Black Swallowtail Caterpillar changes dramatically in appearance as it develops. After it hatches, it is a tiny black caterpillar with a white spot.
As the caterpillar molts, it eats the skin as you can see in this picture (right). The caterpillar continues to grow and as it sheds its skin new patterns and colors appear.........notice the interesting transformation below!!
One interesting fact about the Swallowtail Caterpillars is that the have an orange "forked gland", called the osmeterium.When in danger the osmeterium, which looks like a snake's tongue, ejects and releases a foul smell......all to repel predators! (left) If you try your hand at raising Swallowtails, you will be able to see this unusual feature by gently pressing behind the head. The next stage in our journey is.......the CHRYSALIS. Return to Home from Black Swallowtail Caterpillar
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