Angie, I read somewhere that the black females are most common in the South. I used to see black gals almost all the time, and yellow females were rare, but since the hurricane (has anything been the same since then?) the yellow ones are showing up more often, still not as common as the black ones, but less rare. I think they're the prettiest, the yellow and blue look so good together. I don't see too many tiger eggs, probably because most are laid high up. Around here, if you want to see tiger swallowtails flying, just look up! Sherry

I have enjoyed reading all the posts on host plants. It has given me info for my garden. However, I have been wondering what you are going to do with all this information. It sounds like you are going to use it personally to create a BF habitat in your yard. On keeping trees small for BFs, I like to think of it as BF Bonsai. I love the look of the Tulip Poplar tree. It's a very nice large tree, so I wouldn't mind having one in my yard, which is close to an acre. If Hubby would agree, our yard would border on being wooded! But, he likes everything spaced out. Currently my tulip trees are in pots on the patio, as they are still very small. Amazingly, though, I had small cats on the first tree within weeks after I got it. If you are looking for a small tree to attract a great number of BFs, the wafer ash fits the bill. I don't know if it is hardy in your area, but it's definitely one I'm adding to my backyard. As for Wild Black Cherry, there is one behind me that is an absolutely ugly tree. WBC is definitely one of those trees that would need to be kept pruned and not allowed to go wild. Having said all that, I'd be very sad to see the tree cut down, as it attracts all sorts of BFs and birds. Looks aren't everything! I think most of us on the forum have learned what works by trial and error. I know I have. I've been BF gardening for at least 12 years, and have given up on lots of plants, and am still acquiring other plants. Each season, I add new BFs to my raised category. My Xerces Society Butterfly Gardening Book has been a constant source for plants for BFs. Before I had this forum or used the internet, I relied on that book to build my garden. According to XSBFG, tulip poplar, sweet-bay, wild black cherry, chokecherry, ashes, hop tree (wafer ash), American hornbeam, spicebush, lilac, birches and aspens are hosts. The last two are listed for the Papilio canadensis. One thing I enjoyed about reading the XSBFG book is the accounts of the gardeners and their experiences. The notion that one plant works in all situations is quickly dispelled in this book. The best way to find out the best host in your area is to start planting. Start with the one you really want and if it doesn't work, try another. OKSandy

Well I hope someone close to where you are can advise you abt The number of broods per season.I love Tigers,they are very common Here in south Alabama where I live. I live in the country on a place Surrounded by mixed eastern woodlands,and I do not use any products Harmful to butterflies and hummingbirds. I wish I could get a chance to raise some tiger cats,but I do not find Them.I guess they may stay up in the trees. DD

Yes, wild black cherry pops up most everywhere, so you might find some small ones in your own yard. If not, you can undoubtedly find some on the edge of wooded areas near your home. I'd put it on another wild black cherry tree somewhere. For what it's worth, that caterpillar is in a late instar, maybe even ready to pupate. Sherry