Scarce Swallowtail
Image: Maria Sibylla Merian (Public domain)
Common NameScarce Swallowtail
Scientific NameIphiclides podalirius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrubland, orchards, gardens, meadows, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Western and Central Asia
Host PlantsPrunus spinosa, Prunus domestica, Prunus persica, Crataegus monogyna
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a pale lateral stripe. Pupae are typically green or brown, camouflaged as a twig, and may overwinter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale yellow wings with prominent black 'tiger' stripes, long hindwing tails, and small blue and red markings near the tails. Often seen gliding gracefully.
Description
A beautiful butterfly with pale yellow wings marked by bold black stripes, long sword-like tails on its hindwings, and small blue and red ocelli near the tails.
