Scarce swallowtail

The scarce swallowtail, also known as the sail swallowtail or pear-tree swallowtail, is a striking butterfly from the Papilionidae family. This butterfly boasts several subspecies spread across Europe, Asia, and Africa. You can often encounter them in gardens, towns, the countryside, and open woodlands throughout the East Palearctic ecozone and much of Europe.

One of the most striking features of the scarce swallowtail is its unique appearance. With a wingspan ranging from 60 to 90 millimeters, it is easily noticeable. The caterpillars of this species have a rather diverse diet, feeding on plants such as hawthorn, apple, cherry, plum, peach, and pear trees.

Adult scarce swallowtails are active from March to October and can produce one to three generations annually. However, they face threats from habitat loss, prompting conservation efforts in countries like the Czech Republic, Germany, and Ukraine. In some regions, the scarce swallowtail is considered rare and endangered.

Research has unveiled some fascinating aspects of their biology. For instance, their caterpillars spin silk pads, and their pupae can develop in different colors to blend in with their surroundings. The timing of their pupation can also vary based on the amount of daylight they receive.

Population trends for the scarce swallowtail differ by region. While some areas report stable numbers, others consider the species vulnerable. Despite these concerns, the scarce swallowtail is not currently listed on the IUCN Red List.