Papilio machaon
Papilio machaon
common yellow swallowtail, swallowtail
The Swallowtail has a wingspan of about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) and is recognized by its striking coloration and wing shape. Its wings are black with yellow markings, and it has distinctive "swallowtail" tails on its hindwings.
This butterfly is a strong flier and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and gardens. It feeds on the nectar of various flowers, including clovers, thistles, and milkweeds.
The Swallowtail is also well-known for its use as a model organism in biological research, particularly in the study of developmental biology and genetics. Its large size, easy maintenance, and well-characterized developmental stages make it an ideal subject for studying the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the formation of complex organisms.