Old World Swallowtail - Papilio machaon (swallowtail family - Papilionidae)

Old World Swallowtail belongs to the most bright and beautiful, as well as biggest butterflies in Central Europe. It flies up to 2,000 meters above the sea level. It has two generations - the first appears from the end of April to the first half of June, the second occurs from the first half of July to August. The third generation can appear from September to October during warm seasons. It prefers flowery meadows, copses of clover and alfalfa at open hilly areas and lowlands. Generally, it is very scarce and it occurs in small isolated populations. Caterpillars live at wild carrot plants. It is protected by law.

RND Ilja Okáli, CSc