Based on 3,148 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Virginia, Black Swallowtail is most often recorded in August; in Virginia it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #14 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Papilio polyxenes
Black Swallowtail in Virginia by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Virginia in August
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Monarch
Huron Skipper
Zabulon Skipper
Silver-spotted Skipper
Spicebush Swallowtail
Common Buckeye
Pearl Crescent
Places to look in Virginia
Botanical GardenLewis Ginter Botanical Garden
State ParkGrayson Highlands State Park
State ParkOcconeechee State Park
State ParkStaunton River State Park
State ParkMason Neck State Park
State ParkSky Meadows State Park
FAQ
When does Black Swallowtail appear in Virginia?
Mainly May–October, with the most records in August.
How common is Black Swallowtail in Virginia?
It ranks #14 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in Virginia (3,148 records in our sample).