Eastern/Canadian Tiger Swallowtails

[kirk.zufelt at utoronto.ca]

I am interested in opinions in regards to the validity of these insects as
seperate species. Having lived in the so called "hybrid zone" for many
years I am confused why all the specimens I have seen are "hybrids".  On
examining numerous specimens from Southern Ontario I have seen no clear
Eastern or Canadian Swallowtails they all appear some where in between.As
you go north they gradually approach the typical "Canadian". The only
specimens of typical "Eastern's" I have seen are from the Pt.Pelee region
which is also the only area in the province that has black females.In
examining specimens from S.Florida,the Carolinas,Missouri,Kentucky & S.&
N.Ontario it seems to me that there is a gradual change in morphology that
may accellerate in the Great Lakes Region. I am a "splitter" at heart but
I find it difficult to believe these are distinct species.

Kirk Zufelt