The Spicebush Swallowtail is a type of black swallowtail butterfly that is found along the east coast. It is definitely found in Massachusetts. This butterfly has the classic swallowtail shape, with wide wings which come down to two points, and a row of eyes along the edge. It is Papilio troilus. In Sutton it enjoys day lilies.

It has a mostly black body, with colored highlights. Sometimes this can be blue, sometimes orange. In this case it's black with orange eyes. It's deep in a day lily, enjoying the nectar.





Here is another version of the same butterfly.





Butterflies in Sutton Massachusetts
Animals and Birds in Sutton Massachusetts

Sutton Massachusetts Photo Collection