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Scarce Swallowtail

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description Scarce Swallowtail Overview

The Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) is a large butterfly found across southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, despite its common name suggesting rarity. It features distinctive pale yellow wings with bold black tiger-like stripes and characteristic tail-like extensions on the hindwings, which give it its swallowtail designation. The butterfly favors warm, open habitats including scrubland, orchards, and gardens where its larval food plants (primarily Prunus species such as blackthorn and wild plum) grow. Unlike many butterfly species, the Scarce Swallowtail often glides for extended periods and can be observed patrolling territories or hilltopping.

help Scarce Swallowtail FAQ

Is the Scarce Swallowtail actually rare?

Despite its common name, the Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) is locally common across much of its range in southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The name originated in Britain, where the species is indeed rare or only an occasional vagrant, since it is not a resident breeder there.

What does the Scarce Swallowtail look like?

The Scarce Swallowtail has pale yellow-white wings with bold, black tiger-like stripes running longitudinally across the forewings, along with distinctive tail-like extensions on the hindwings. It has a wingspan of approximately 3 to 4 inches and its elegant, elongated wings give it a somewhat different silhouette from the more familiar Old World Swallowtail (Papilio machaon).

What is the host plant for the Scarce Swallowtail caterpillar?

Scarce Swallowtail caterpillars feed primarily on plants in the Rosaceae family, particularly blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), hawthorn (Crataegus), and various fruit trees in the genus Prunus such as wild plum and cherry. Females lay eggs singly on the leaves of these host shrubs and trees.

Where can I see the Scarce Swallowtail in the wild?

The Scarce Swallowtail is widespread across southern and central Europe, extending into North Africa and through the Middle East and Central Asia. It favors warm, open habitats such as orchards, hedgerows, scrubland, and hillsides, and is commonly seen flying from spring through late summer, often producing two broods per year.

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