MGC Website: Black Swallowtail
Since 2016 when SB850 was introduced in the Michigan Senate, MGC has worked diligently to have the Black Swallowtail named as the official state of Michigan butterfly. On March 27th, Rep. Julie Brixie introduced HB4308 to designate the Black Swallowtail as the official state butterfly. It was referred to the Committee on Government Operations by Speaker Hall. To help push this bill forward, ask your Representative to ask Speaker Hall to have the HB4308 moved to the Natural Resources and Tourism Committee or the Agriculture Committee. The voices of MGC members are critical to establishing the Black Swallowtail as the state butterfly. If you wish to discuss this bill further, I would be happy to visit with you. Contact me at .
Why The Black Swallowtail for State Butterfly?
Such a designation would promote the importance of pollinators which are crucial to Michigan crops. Michigan Garden Clubs, Inc., is working with the Michigan legislature and other organizations to support this bill. The Black Swallowtail is an appropriate ambassador for Michigan pollinators for the following reasons:
- It spends its entire life cycle in Michigan, overwintering as a pupa. This is unlike many other butterflies that are transient visitors to our state.
- Its habitat covers the entire state.
- It is not only non-threatening but also beautiful making it an excellent teaching tool about pollinators.
- The Black Swallowtail is often seen at the garden level making it easily visible and identifiable. Again, making this butterfly an excellent teaching tool.
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THANK YOU TO REPRESENTATIVE BRIXIE FOR ALL OF HER SUPPORT TO RE-INTRODUCE AGAIN IN THE MICHIGAN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES! PLEASE HELP US MAKE THE BLACK SWALLOWTAIL OUR STATE BUTTERFLY!!!
Contact:
Jeanette Meyer, Legislation Chair
Michigan Garden Clubs, Inc
