Scarce Swallowtail
Image: Enrique y Arturo Mélida (Public domain)
Common NameScarce Swallowtail
Scientific NameIphiclides podalirius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale yellow, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrubland, orchards, gardens, often near host plants
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia
Host Plantsblackthorn, hawthorn, peach, almond, cherry, plum
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a pale stripe, pupating on stems or branches. Overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale yellow and black striped pattern, the long hindwing tails, and the overall angular and elegant wing shape.
Description
An elegant butterfly with pale yellow wings marked by distinctive black stripes and long, sword-like tails on the hindwings. The wing margins are scalloped.
