Thats not bird droppings…its a giant swallowtail butterfly caterpillar!

The giant swallowtail butterfly’s caterpillars are unmistakable. They look like bird droppings. These caterpillars feed on citrus plants hence the nickname “orange dog.” The caterpillar below is feeding on Hercules club.

Swallowtail Caterpillar
Swallowtail butterfly caterpillar photo credits: K. Gioeli
Swallowtail butterfly - view from bottom
Swallowtail butterfly – view from bottom Photo Credits: K. Gioeli
Swallowtail Butterfly Top View
Swallowtail Top View Photo Credits: K. Gioeli

 

References
Florida Museum of Natural History

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Posted: May 6, 2020


Category: , Conservation, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Home Landscapes, NATURAL RESOURCES, Pests & Disease
Tags: #UFBugs, Butterfly, Caterpillar, Orange Dog


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