Based on 16,888 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Western Tiger Swallowtail is most often recorded in June; in California it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #10 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Papilio rutulus
Western Tiger Swallowtail in California 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 California in June
Monarch
Gray Buckeye
Variable Checkerspot
Small White
Anise Swallowtail
California Sister
Pale Swallowtail
Acmon Blue
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Western Tiger Swallowtail appear in California?
Mainly April–August, with the most records in June.
How common is Western Tiger Swallowtail in California?
It ranks #10 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in California (16,888 records in our sample).