Southern Swallowtail
Common NameSouthern Swallowtail
Scientific NamePapilio alexanor
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black, blue, orange
HabitatRocky, dry, often mountainous or hilly areas, garrigue, maquis, open scrubland
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, Turkey, Middle East, Central Asia
Host PlantsPtychotis saxifraga, Seseli libanotis, Trinia glauca, Opopanax chironium, Ferula communis
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with black bands and orange spots, developing an osmeterium for defense. Pupae are green or brown and typically overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the bright yellow wings with prominent black stripes, the long tails on the hindwings, and the specific pattern of blue submarginal spots combined with an orange and black ocellus on the hindwings.
Description
A large and striking swallowtail butterfly with bright yellow wings boldly marked with thick black stripes. Its hindwings feature prominent tails, a submarginal band of blue spots, and a distinctive orange and black eyespot near the anal angle.
