BLACK SWALLOWTAIL

The first stage of a Black Swallowtail's life is an egg, shown here on
Fennel in our garden on July 20, 2005. (Pardon the fingers).

An egg about to hatch on Parsley. July 14, 2007.

A few days after hatching they look like this and they begin to
feed heavily on the Fennel. July 24, 2005.

As they grow they get more colorful and seem to be always feeding.
Taken July 28, 2005.

Here is a Black Swallowtail chrysalis that was formed on Parsley in our backyard.
Taken June 13, 2008.

Here is the butterfly from the previous photo after just emerging from the
chrysalis. It will now dry and pump up its wings in preparation for flight.
Taken July 12, 2008.

The process continues......until

.....the wings are fully open and the butterfly is ready to leave. It did moments later.