Papilio machaon – Old-world swallowtail

The old-world swallowtail is a daily butterfly (Lepidoptera) from the family Papilionidae. The Papilio family is widespread mostly in the northern hemisphere.

The species is highly adaptable to different habitats including high mountain, grassland and wetland habitats. The larvae are black with white line, and mostly eat plant species of the family Apiaceae (Umbellifreae).

They usually breed near wetlands and have a life expectancy of 2 years. They have a grandiose flight and can fly over large areas.