Southern Festoon
Common NameSouthern Festoon
Scientific NameZerynthia polyxena
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyParnassiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black, red
HabitatWarm, dry, grassy areas, rocky slopes, scrubland, open woodlands, and meadows
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, extending eastwards to the Urals and Kazakhstan
Host PlantsAristolochia clematitis, Aristolochia rotunda, Aristolochia pallida
Flight PeriodMarch to June (single brood)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly or in small groups on the host plant leaves. Larvae are dark with rows of fleshy tubercles and feed exclusively on Aristolochia species. Pupation occurs on the ground or low vegetation, often overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright yellow and black striped pattern with prominent red ocelli (eyespots) on the hindwings. The overall shape is somewhat angular, and it lacks tails on the hindwings, differentiating it from some other swallowtails.
Description
This butterfly has striking yellow wings with bold black stripes and a series of red and blue spots along the hindwing margins. The body is dark and hairy.
