I rarely see these but that made it more delightful. Such a swift flyer and timid so the photo is not the best. I think it is an Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon). It didn't appear to be damaged but it has no tails. Thought you Easterners might enjoy seeing this. It visited many types of flowers while I chased it around. Lantana, Coneflower, Origanum,Gaillardia and Berlandiera then had a rest on a sign.

Leslieray, this Floridian loves your photos! I always like seeing butterflies from other parts of the country - and the world! Funny story, I once attended a butterfly talk and plant sale at one of my favorite local nurseries. Unfortunately, the owner was pretty new at butterflies. She had caterpillars up on a table so you could see them up close and had the Black Swallowtail listed as the "Anise Swallowtail". I didn't have the heart to tell her the Anise was only found out west.

For those who don't know, the caterpillars of both species look identical and eat the same things so I can understand the confusion. But that's why it's important to look at their range, or better yet, buy a field guide for your particular area.

Beautiful butterfly, Leslieray and good photos for ID. I don't believe i've seen this butterfly before. The images that i see of Swallowtails similar to this, including the Anise all have prominent tails. Of course it could have lost the tails. Let's wait to see if someone shows up who recognizes it.

Mellie we were both posting at the same time. What about the tails? Do you think it just lost them?

Oh yeah! Swallowtails lose their tails all the time. I've even had a couple that lost a tail before I could let them out of their cage. In the wild they lose them all the time. Most butterflies I see have some kind of damage to their wings. It's always better to have your life if it means sacrificing your tails!

Really nice Leslieray! Cool to see butterflies that don't live where I live. Thanks for sharing that.