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Old World swallowtail

Old World swallowtail

Papilio machaon

A species of Swallowtails, Also known as Common yellow swallowtail, Baird's swallowtail

The old World swallowtail (Papilio machaon) is commonly just called the "swallowtail," giving it the added title of "old world" to distinguish it and remind us that it comes from the "old world" (Asia, Africa, Europe). The upper side of them is a beautiful combination of pure white with black striping, the underside being a brownish version of the same thing. There is blue and two red dots on its back side.

General Info About Old World swallowtail
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Attributes of Old World swallowtail
Colors
Black
White
Blue
Habitat
alpine meadow; hillside; garden
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Old World swallowtail is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Old World swallowtail is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Old World swallowtail feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Old World swallowtail
It is present throughout the entire Palearctic region, the species is protected in the United Kingdom.
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Distribution Area of Old World swallowtail
Africa, Europe, Japan, North America
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Adult Size of Old World swallowtail
7 - 9 cm
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Predators of Old World swallowtail Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, spiders, ants
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Predators of Adult Old World swallowtail
Birds, spiders, predacious insects, small mammals
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Interesting Facts About Old World swallowtail
When threatened, the caterpillar of old World swallowtail emits a foul-smelling orange secretion from an osmeterium to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Old World swallowtail
Tips for Finding Old World swallowtail
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Youth Habitat of Old World swallowtail
Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Old World swallowtail
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Old World swallowtail
The most suitable time to find adult old World swallowtail is generally mid-morning to early afternoon on sunny days, as this is when they are most active for feeding and mating.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Old World swallowtail
Adult old World swallowtail are typically active in warm, sunny, and calm weather conditions. Avoid windy, rainy, or cold days when searching for old World swallowtail.
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How and Where Can You Find Old World swallowtail at Different Life Stages
Egg Old World swallowtail eggs are laid on host plants. Search for tiny, round or spindle-shaped eggs on the underside of leaves, especially on plants that caterpillars feed on.
Larva Old World swallowtail caterpillars can be found on host plants. Look for signs of feeding, like chewed leaves, and search for the caterpillars near these signs, as they are often well-camouflaged.
Pupal Old World swallowtail pupae are immobile and can be found attached to structures or plants, often in sheltered locations like the undersides of branches or in leaf litter.
Adult Adult old World swallowtail are typically found in open, sunny areas with abundant flowers. To locate them, visit meadows, fields, or gardens with flowering plants favored by these butterflies.
Are Old World swallowtail harmful?
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Usually, the old World swallowtail won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Old World swallowtail harmful to humans?

They are not a poisonous butterfly, but they have a special gland that secretes bad smells and chemicals.
Beneficial Effects of Old World swallowtail
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Old World swallowtail flutters from blossom to blossom, its proboscis uncoils to sip nectar. While feeding, pollen sticks to and is transferred by this elegant visitor, aiding in plant fertilization. Its vivid colors and dancing flight are not just a spectacle but a vital part of the ecological tapestry.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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