Scarce Swallowtail
Image: Moran, Peter, 1841-1914, artist (Public domain)
Common NameScarce Swallowtail
Scientific NameIphiclides podalirius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscream, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, orchards, gardens, sunny slopes
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsPrunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus persica, Prunus domestica
Flight PeriodApril to August
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a yellow lateral stripe and feed on various Prunus species. Pupae are either green or brown and overwinter attached to stems.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale cream or yellow wings with distinct black stripes and the very long, slender tails on the hindwings. Its flight is often a graceful glide.
Description
An elegant butterfly with pale yellow or cream wings adorned with prominent black stripes and long, sword-like tails on its hindwings.
