Swallowtail butterfly

Swallowtail butterflies are a group of large, often brightly coloured butterflies in the family Papilionidae.

Swallowtail butterflies are a group of large, often brightly coloured butterflies in the family Papilionidae. They are named for the tail-like extensions on the hindwings of many species, though some are tailless. The group includes more than 500 species found across most of the world, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

Classification and naming

Swallowtail butterflies are a family of butterflies in the order Lepidoptera and family Papilionidae. Their common name refers to the tail-like extensions on the hindwings of many species, although some species lack tails.

Distribution and diversity

The group contains more than 500 species and is found worldwide except Antarctica. Diversity is highest in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in East and Southeast Asia.

Appearance and life cycle

Swallowtails are generally large and often brightly patterned in yellow, black, blue, red, or green. Like other butterflies, they develop through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

Ecology and behaviour

Adults usually feed on nectar, while larvae feed on host plants that vary by species. Many larvae rely on chemical or visual defences, including scent glands, eyespots, and mimicry.

Regional examples

Well-known species include the eastern tiger swallowtail, giant swallowtail, black swallowtail, and the British swallowtail. Some regional populations are rare or locally restricted, such as the British swallowtail in the Norfolk Broads.