Scarce Swallowtail
Image: Wenceslaus Hollar (Public domain)
Common NameScarce Swallowtail
Scientific NameIphiclides podalirius
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, light (implied cream/white)
HabitatWarm, sunny, sheltered areas, often associated with fruit orchards, scrubland, and open woodlands.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia.
Host Plantsblackthorn, hawthorn, almond, peach, cherry, apple
Flight PeriodApril to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. The larvae are green with a pale stripe and feed on the leaves, pupating on stems or branches.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, very long and slender hindwing tails, and the prominent, somewhat wavy black stripes on a pale background, distinguishing it from other swallowtails.
Description
A large, elegant butterfly with very long, slender tails on its hindwings and a distinctive pattern of bold black stripes on a pale, creamy-white background.
