The polydamas swallowtail has had an outstanding week in the butterfly house with 21 total emerging bringing our grand total to 75. The first photo is of its chrysalis right before it emerged.

The polydamas, also known as the gold rim swallowtail, tailless swallowtail and scientific name Battus polydamas lucayus, lays its eggs on the Dutchman pipe. This is the only swallowtail that lacks the tails at the base of the secondary wings, according to the University of Florida.

This species can be found throughout peninsular Florida, as well as in the Florida Keys. There are some that wander as far north as Missouri and Kentucky.

A favorite nectar flower of this species is the red penta. It’s amazing to watch them take a sip, as their wings never stop flapping. The ones released have been hanging out in the gardens this week!