Europe
Apollo
Scientific name Parnassius apollo
- Wingspan
- 62-86 mm
- Max age
- 2-4 weeks
- Rarity
- rare
About this butterfly
The Apollo is a large creamy-white butterfly with black spots and red eyespots on the hindwings. It inhabits mountains, rocky slopes and flower-rich alpine and upland grassland. Many populations outside the Alps have declined, and the species is protected in numerous countries. International trade is restricted under CITES. Adults take nectar from alpine and rocky-slope flowers. Larvae feed on White Stonecrop and other Crassulaceae. The flight period is typically mid-summer and fairly short. Collecting and habitat change have both harmed local colonies. It is a flagship of European mountain conservation. Not every rocky hillside is suitable Apollo country.