Old World Swallowtail, Common Yellow Swallowtail

Natural Habitat

Widely distributed across temperate regions of Europe, Asia, North America, and North Africa. It can be found in a variety of open habitats including meadows, grasslands, gardens, agricultural fields, wetlands, and open woodlands. Requires areas with its host plants for larval development and nectar sources for adult feeding.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar from various flowers. Larvae (caterpillars) feed on the leaves of host plants, which include members of the carrot family (Apiaceae) like wild carrot, dill, fennel, parsley, and parsnip, as well as rue (Rutaceae) and some other plant families.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are active during the day, often seen flying swiftly in open areas or visiting flowers for nectar. Males exhibit 'hilltopping' behavior, where they perch on high points to find mates. Larvae feed on host plants, changing their appearance as they grow, sometimes mimicking bird droppings when young to deter predators.

Risks & Benefits

This species poses no direct risks to humans. As a pollinator, it provides significant ecological benefits by aiding in the reproduction of various flowering plants, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Its caterpillars can be minor pests on cultivated plants like dill or parsley, but this is generally not a significant economic issue.

Identified on: 6/30/2025