VUVulnerable

Papilio carolinensis

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Papilio carolinensis faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss from urban development and agricultural expansion throughout its southeastern United States range. The species' dependence on specific host plants in the Apiaceae family makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the distribution and phenology of both the butterfly and its essential host plants, potentially disrupting critical breeding cycles.
Threat summary

Habitat

This swallowtail butterfly inhabits open woodlands, forest edges, meadows, and gardens throughout the southeastern United States, particularly in areas where its host plants in the carrot family (Apiaceae) are abundant. The species shows a preference for sunny, partially shaded environments with access to nectar sources and suitable breeding sites.

Other threatened species in PAPILIONIDAE

Talaud Black Birdwing

Troides dohertyi

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Papilio carolinensis classified as Vulnerable?

Papilio carolinensis is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Papilio carolinensis faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss from urban development and agricultural expansion throughout its southeastern United States range. The species' dependence on specific host plants in the Apiaceae family makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the distribution and phenology of both the butterfly and its essential host plants, potentially disrupting critical breeding cycles.

Where does Papilio carolinensis live?

Papilio carolinensis occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.

What are the main threats to Papilio carolinensis?

The main threats to Papilio carolinensis are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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