Common Yellow Swallowtail
Image: Palickap (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameCommon Yellow Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio machaon
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, red
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open country, fens, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (Alaska, Canada)
Host Plantswild carrot, fennel, parsley, dill, hogweed
Flight PeriodApril to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with black bands and orange spots, possessing an osmeterium. Pupae are either green or brown, camouflaged as a twig or leaf, and overwinter as a chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, bright yellow and black striped pattern, long hindwing tails, and the distinctive blue and red spots near the tails on the hindwings.
Description
A large, striking yellow butterfly with prominent black stripes and veins, featuring blue and red eyespots on the hindwings, which also have characteristic 'tails'.
