Old World Swallowtail

Natural Habitat

Found in a wide range of habitats including meadows, grasslands, steppes, and mountain slopes up to high altitudes across Europe, Asia, and North America.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (caterpillars) feed on plants in the Apiaceae family (such as carrot, fennel, and dill). Adults feed on nectar from flowers including thistles, clover, and lavender.

Behavior Patterns

They exhibit hill-topping behavior where males fly to high points to seek mates. They undergo complete metamorphosis with 2-3 generations per year in warmer climates, overwintering as pupae (chrysalis).

Risks & Benefits

They are beneficial pollinators for various wild and garden flowers. They pose no risk to humans, although caterpillars may occasionally cause minor damage to garden herbs like dill or parsley.

Identified on: 3/11/2026