Based on 1,531 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Colorado, Western Tiger Swallowtail is most often recorded in June; in Colorado 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 Colorado 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 Colorado in June
Two-tailed Swallowtail
Weidemeyer's Admiral
Variegated Fritillary
Small White
Common Ringlet
Painted Lady
Taxiles Skipper
Rocky Mountain Parnassian
Places to look in Colorado
National ForestWhite River National Forest
Botanical GardenDenver Botanic Gardens
National ForestRio Grande National Forest
National ForestSan Juan National Forest
State ParkRoxborough State Park
State ParkMancos State Park
FAQ
When does Western Tiger Swallowtail appear in Colorado?
Mainly June–July, with the most records in June.
How common is Western Tiger Swallowtail in Colorado?
It ranks #10 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in Colorado (1,531 records in our sample).