Eastern Festoon
Common NameEastern Festoon
Scientific NameZerynthia polyxena
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)46
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, black, red
HabitatOpen, sunny, grassy areas, meadows, rocky slopes, scrubland, often near host plants
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe (from France to Ukraine), parts of Western Asia (Turkey, Caucasus)
Host PlantsAristolochia clematitis, Aristolochia rotunda, Aristolochia pallida
Flight PeriodMarch to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly or in small clusters on Aristolochia host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on the leaves, pupating on the ground or low vegetation, often overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsEasily recognized by its striking cream and black pattern combined with the row of red spots on the hindwings, and its association with Aristolochia host plants.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with creamy-white to pale yellow wings, prominently marked with intricate black bands and spots, and a distinctive row of red spots along the margin of the hindwings.
