Citrus Caterpillar: Bird-Dropping Mimic Swallowtail

Caterpillars resembling bird droppings on Arizona citrus = giant swallowtail larvae. They mature to green. Spray Bt or Sevin; they won't kill tree but can defoliate.

ID & Control

• Early instars: black/white, spiny = bird poop mimic.
• Late instars: green, plump.
• Bt = slower, organic. Sevin = faster contact.
• Check tomatoes/squash—they prefer citrus family.

Hand-pick if few.