Southern Festoon
Image: Danilo Ugrnov (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameSouthern Festoon
Scientific NameZerynthia polyxena
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorscream, black, red, blue
HabitatOpen grasslands, scrubland, rocky slopes, forest clearings, often dry and sunny areas
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, extending into parts of Western Asia
Host PlantsAristolochia clematitis, Aristolochia rotunda, Aristolochia pallida
Flight PeriodMarch to June (single brood)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on Aristolochia species. Pupae overwinter, often attached to stems or rocks, emerging in early spring.
Identification TipsLook for the creamy-white wings with strong black venation and zigzag patterns. The most distinctive feature is the row of bright red spots, often with small blue centers, along the outer edge of the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with creamy-white wings heavily marked with prominent black veins and intricate black patterns, featuring a distinctive row of red spots, often with blue centers, along the hindwing margins.
