This is a large butterfly that can look either white or pale yellow with prominent vertical black stripes and long tail streamers, from where it gained the common name. When feeding on a flower the blue crescents and red markings on the hindwings are visible. The under wing pattern is a little paler.
The caterpillars can be up to 4.5cm long. They are green with fine yellow lines and orange spots. The shape is deeper in the first third and tapers off sharply. 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: Iphiclides podalirius
English common name: Scarce swallowtail
Spanish common name: Chupaleches
Wing size: 64-90mm
Altitude: Sea level to 1600m
Flight time: March-October in two to three broods depending on the seasons
Over-wintering: Chrysalis
Caterpillar food plant: Prunus species e.g. Blackthorn, Sloe, Almond, Cherry and Hawthorn.
Distribution: Most parts of Europe eastwards to India and China.
Similar species: Swallowtail (Papilio machaon), which has a stronger yellow base colour and has more solid black on “shoulders” and body. They are included in the list of butterflies found in Andalusia.
    
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Last Updated ( Friday, 01 February 2008 19:08 )
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Insects and Creepy Crawlies 
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