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Scarce Swallowtail

Scarce Swallowtail

Iphiclides podalirius

A large, distinctive butterfly species within the swallowtail family, characterized by pale yellowish-white wings with black striped patterns and elongated tail-like wing extensions.

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Scarce Swallowtail
Scarce Swallowtail
Scarce Swallowtail
Scarce Swallowtail
Scarce Swallowtail
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Found across Southern and Central Europe, including Mediterranean regions, typically inhabiting open woodlands, forest edges, gardens, and mountainous areas with elevation ranges from 0-1,800 meters.

Ecological Role

Important pollinator species; larvae serve as primary consumers in forest ecosystems; contributes to biodiversity and food web dynamics in temperate landscapes.

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Scaled wing surface with complex pigmentation providing camouflage and thermoregulation
  • LIMBS WINGS Pale yellowish-white wings with distinctive black vein-like striped patterns; strong flight muscles enable agile aerial movement
  • HEAD SENSORY Compound eyes, long proboscis for nectar feeding, sensitive antennae for environmental navigation
  • BODY STRUCTURE Large butterfly wingspan of 65-85 mm; elongated hindwing projections resembling swallowtail; body length approximately 40-50 mm
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Tbc
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Papilionidae