Clodius Parnassian
Common NameClodius Parnassian
Scientific NameParnassius clodius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black, red
HabitatSubalpine and alpine meadows, open forests, clearings, often near streams
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to California and east to Montana and Wyoming
Host PlantsDicentra formosa, Dicentra uniflora, Corydalis
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an egg or young larva. Larvae feed on host plants, pupate in a loose cocoon on the ground, and emerge as adults in summer.
Identification TipsTranslucent white wings with black veins, red-ringed black spots (ocelli) on hindwings, and a hairy black body. Lacks the 'tails' characteristic of most other swallowtails.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with translucent white wings, prominent black veins, and distinctive red-ringed black spots on the hindwings and sometimes forewings.
