Saw this beauty on my parsley plants along with a couple of his brothers or sisters. Any ideas? (looks like a Pittsburgh Steelers fan to me...hmmm) ( photo / image / picture from loretta426's Garden )
I believe it's a 4th instar Black Swallowtail caterpillar... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papilio_polyxenes The last instar is when the white stripes have taken on a greenish tint. If you live in the colder regions of the U.S. you may not see the butterflies until spring, they overwinter in the chrysalis. Further south there is plenty of time for the next generation to pupate and fill your garden with butterflies.
Thank you Toni! I will plant parsley just for them! I LOVE butterflies and swallowtails are gorgeous! :-D
I've seen a few "brand new ones" over the last couple of days. Just makes you smile to see them fluttering from plant to plant.
