Rescue: Tiger Swallowtail Saved from Pool Pond Drowning

Published by Rochester Sun Times News at 11:55 PM CDT, Monday, June 15, 2026

By Lisa Loucks-Christenson

A tiger swallowtail butterfly was rescued from drowning at Pool Pond Monday evening after sustaining a bite wound, likely from a barred owl fledgling.

The butterfly survived after the author removed him from the water, stood guard until his wings dried, and watched him fly away—process documented for upcoming book.

What happened: At approximately 6:30 PM CDT Monday, I discovered a tiger swallowtail drowning in Pool Pond. The butterfly had a bite mark on his lower left wing, consistent with bird predation. I suspected Charlie, a barred owl fledgling calling from a nearby tree.

Why it matters: Barred owls are diurnal predators, active during daylight hours when I conduct wildlife filming. Their presence in the Pool Pond area is well-documented through my ongoing documentation.

The rescue: I removed the butterfly from the water and remained present until his wings dried sufficiently for flight. The drying process took approximately 15-20 minutes.

Unexpected observations: During the drying period, a cabbage butterfly circled the swallowtail, a gnat landed on his wing, and ants stirred him. These interactions appeared to encourage movement and recovery.

Outcome: The tiger swallowtail successfully flew away, ascending from the pond's edge and disappearing into surrounding trees.

Documentation: Rescue photographs and this account will be included in Oak Savanna Winds: Willow Pond, Book 2, scheduled for 2027 publication. The book remains in progress.

Daily observation: Pool Pond wildlife documentation reveals consistent interesting encounters. Today, I noticed a struggling creature and intervened.

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Lisa Loucks-Christonen is an investigative journalist, author, wildlife photographer, and ordained minister based in Rochester, Minnesota. She publishes Rochester Sun Times News, produces documentaries and books on nature and conservation, and manages multiple media platforms.sts.