My close up caterpillar photography in September reflects my fascination with the 20+ caterpillars on my Milkweed and neighboring Parsley plants in raised bed. At first overjoyed to see and photograph the caterpillars. It took me a while to notice the difference. Initially thought the same caterpillar crawling back and forth between Milkweed and Parsley plants. They both have black, yellow and white stripes. Closer examination and research revealed the Monarch Caterpillar has an antenna at both ends of its body and only eats Milkweed. The Swallowtail Caterpillar has little yellow half moon markings along its body's stripes and prefers parsley. Looking forward to photographing butterflies in the spring. Caterpillars weren't easy to photograph as often hidden deep under the leaves. Light editing Snapseed.
6 comments posted
Robert Barley
That's a great close-up of the Monarch caterpillar. They are bright and colorful in this form, and when they become butterflies, too. The comparison with the Swallowtail is great. I didn't know the differences between them, so I learned something from your images and explanation. Good work.
I'm wondering if you grow Milkweed just to provide for the Monarchs or for another reason. Does Milkweed have another value?
And I will add that the PSA system labeled the Swallowtail image as "Original." I couldn't change that.
Posted: 10/02/2026 16:46:08
Lynne Royce
Milkweed's primary use is to attract Monarch butterflies as its leaves are the only plant its caterpillars will eat. Many people in the northeast plant milkweed to help the Monarch population and who doesn't like butterflies fluttering around the garden from flower to flower? Posted: 10/16/2026 23:36:51
Richard Sprott
Great shots and info!! I like both images for their color and composition. Nicely done! Posted: 10/02/2026 18:29:34
Pamela Hoaglund
Thank you for sharing images of both caterpillars. Educational information also. My only suggestion would be that if you photograph them again and its sunny use an umbrella to shade the caterpillar. The 'original' photo has nice color as it is shaded but in the main photo the colors of the caterpillar seem to me to be washed out. It sounds like you have a fascinating garden. Posted: 10/10/2026 20:57:38
Susan Pellegrino
(Group 86)
Visiting from group 86. Nice captures.
I think I prefer the one labeled "original." I prefer the composition and the lighting. Posted: 10/13/2026 14:54:18
Sol Blechman
The education here is wonderful. Strictly speaking and judging for photo composition, the one labeled "original" makes a better shot. Both are striking images with good impact. Posted: 10/14/2026 17:11:35
