This is a large and brightly coloured butterfly which is easily recognised as a swallowtail. The main colour on upper and under wings is yellow with bands and veins of black. On closer inspection there are blue markings and a pair of red spots on the hindwing. The tail streamers are where it gained the common name, although occasionally one or both may have broken off.

These majestic insects often stop to feed on garden flowers allowing for a closer view.

The caterpillars of this species can be up to 5cm long. They have a glandular defense system against predation. On their necks is hidden a fork of brightly coloured retractable flesh, when raised this emits a foul smell to deter predators.

Family: Papilionidae
Scientific name: Papilio machaon
English common name: Swallowtail
Spanish common name: Macaon
Portuguese common name: Makaon

Wing size: 64-100mm
Altitude: sea level to 3000m
Flight time: February-October in two to three broods
Over-wintering: Chrysalis
Caterpillar food plant: Many Umbellifers: Wild carrot, Fennel and Rue families.
Distribution: Widespread over much of Europe and Asia. North Africa and North America.

Similar species: Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) which has a paler cream base colour and the black markings are reminiscent of zebra stripes.

They are included in the list of butterflies found in Andalusia.

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