Scientific name: Papilio machaon
Showy pollinator whose caterpillars usually feed on umbelliferous plants like fennel.
How this species lives in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
The swallowtail butterfly is an emblem of well-conserved flowery meadows.
It prefers sunny slopes, grasslands, and fields with umbelliferous plants distributed in mosaic.
Adults perform powerful and visible flights, visiting flowers and patrolling open territories.
Young caterpillars can adopt defensive postures and show odorous organs called osmeteria when they feel threatened.
Agricultural intensification and removal of wild flora locally affect its populations.
Striking details about this species that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
Aspects to consider if this species is kept in captivity in specialized centers.
In captivity only some caterpillars should be raised for educational purposes, always releasing adults at the place of origin.
They need a constant supply of fresh leaves from their host plants.
Chrysalises must be kept in humidity and temperature conditions similar to outdoors.
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers.
School projects can raise a small number of caterpillars with expert guidance.
Mass collection of caterpillars or eggs from the same population should be avoided.
The best contribution is to conserve and plant native flora that can serve as their habitat.
It is an excellent species to introduce the public to the biology of diurnal butterflies.
Whenever possible, it is preferable to observe insects in their natural environment, promote favorable habitats (flowers, ponds, hedges) and use captive breeding only for justified educational or conservation purposes.