The Giant Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio Cresphontes) is the largest butterfly in North America. These beautiful butterflies are known for their size. The female giant swallowtail butterfly has a wingspan of 5.5 in (14 cm), and up to 6.9 in (18 cm, while the male giant swallowtail butterfly has a wingspan of 5.8 in (15 cm), and up to 7.4 in (19 cm). Because of their enormous wings, giant swallowtail butterflies are powerful fliers and can quickly travel long distances.
When it is time to mate, the males search for females along set flight paths and near host plants. They usually mate in the afternoon. The female giant swallowtail butterfly lays its eggs on top of the leaves of one of its preferred host plants.
Adult giant swallowtail butterflies feed on nectar plants such as Asclepias incarnata, Lonicera japonica, Solidago, Saponaria officinalis, Lantana, Bougainvilla, and Azaleas.