Old World Swallowtail
Image: ArtByJude (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Common NameOld World Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio machaon
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsblack, pale yellow, blue, red
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open country, fens, marshes, coastal areas
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa, parts of North America (Alaska, Canada, northern US)
Host Plantswild carrot, fennel, dill, parsley, hogweed
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with black bands and orange spots, possessing an osmeterium. Pupae can be green or brown, often overwintering.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of black and pale yellow striped wings, prominent tails, blue spots, and a red eyespot on the hindwings. The overall pattern is quite distinctive among swallowtails.
Description
A large, striking swallowtail butterfly with black wings marked by broad pale yellow bands and blue spots on the hindwings, which also feature a prominent red eyespot and tails.
