Our insect of the week for June 15, 2026 is the Pipe-Vine Swallowtail, Battus philenor. It was described by Linné in 1771. As many know, Carl Linnaeus was a Swedish biologist who formalized biological nomenclature. He was enobled in 1761 and is referred to as Carl von Linné after that date. Hence the above reference as he described this species after enoblement.

This butterfly is found in North and Central America. Caterpillars feed on plants of the genus Aristolochia (such as Pipevine, Dutchman’s Pipe, and Virginia snakeroot). They sequester chemicals from these plants to defend themselves against predation.

Adults display sexual dimorphism (as you can see from these photos). Specimens were collected and photographed by Frank Hitchell in Peoria County, Illinois.

Male

Female