Oklahoma designated the black swallowtail (Papilio polyxenesis) as the official state butterfly in 1996. Oklahoma is a home to a wide varitey of colorful butterflies. The black swallowtail is a migratory species indigenous to the state from May to October.

Black swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes) - photo by Tom Zinneman from zinnysworld.com: Swallowtails - family Papilionidae (used by permission)

Quote from legislation: "The black swallowtail plays a vital role in the cross-pollination of plant life in Oklahoma, which is a necessary link in the chain which supports our ecology. In addition, the presence of the black swallowtail in Oklahoma not only adds color and beauty to our state but provides enjoyment for our citizens and an opportunity to study and understand the contributions this insect makes to our environment."

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State Insects - 50 States List