Southern Swallowtail

Papilio alexanor

Very rare
Southern Swallowtail — photo 1 Southern Swallowtail — photo 2

Description

White caterpillar with black segments and orange spots. Like all Papilionidae, it bears an orange osmeterium deployed when threatened.

Information

FamilyPapilionidae
Size5–6 cm
Hairinessglabre
Observation periodMay to July
DistributionSouth-east France only, and a few other European regions. Up to 1700m.
ToxicityNo
RarityVery rare

Host plants

  • Opopanax
  • Ptychotis saxifraga
  • Trinia glauca
  • Wild fennel

Notes

Protected species in France.

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