Apollo
Common NameApollo
Scientific NameParnassius apollo
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorswhite, black, red, orange
HabitatMountainous regions, subalpine meadows, rocky slopes, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, Central Asia, Siberia
Host PlantsSedum album, Sedum telephium, Sempervivum tectorum
Flight PeriodJune to September
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants or nearby vegetation. Larvae are velvety black with orange spots, feeding on stonecrops and houseleeks. They pupate in a loose cocoon on the ground, often overwintering as eggs or young larvae.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, predominantly white wings with a slightly translucent appearance, and the characteristic black spots on the forewings combined with the bright red-ringed eyespots on the hindwings. Its slow, gliding flight is also distinctive.
Description
A large, striking white butterfly with semi-transparent wings, featuring prominent black spots on the forewings and distinctive red-ringed black eyespots on the hindwings.
