Scarce Swallowtail
Image: Gaetan Maerten from Leuven, Belgium (CC BY 2.0)
Common NameScarce Swallowtail
Scientific NameIphiclides podalirius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale yellow, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrubland, orchards, gardens, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia (from France to China)
Host PlantsPrunus spinosa, Prunus domestica, Prunus persica, Crataegus monogyna, Malus domestica
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with pale stripes, often with small spines, and pupate attached to a stem or leaf, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its pale cream or yellowish wings with strong black stripes and the very long, slender tails on the hindwings, which distinguish it from other swallowtail species in its range.
Description
A large, elegant butterfly with cream-colored wings prominently marked by bold black stripes and distinctive long, sword-like tails on its hindwings.
