The Iberian Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides feisthamelii) is a large, distinctive white-and-black butterfly found across the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, and North Africa. Characterized by long tails, wide black stripes, and a "wedge" shape, this species is often considered a separate species or a distinct subspecies of the Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius).
Key Characteristics and Habits
Appearance: This butterfly has a white to pale yellowish base color with striking, wide black tiger stripes, long tails on the hind wings, and blue "eyes".
Flight: They have a distinctive, almost directionless, floating flight style compared to other swallowtails.
Habitat & Behavior: Often found in dry, bushy, and sunny areas, often near fruit trees (like Prunus and Malus). They are seen feeding on lavender and other nectar plants.
Life Cycle: They are bivoltine, meaning they have two generations, with the first brood often appearing in spring (e.g., May in the Picos de Europa).
Common in Spain and Portugal, with range extensions into southern France.
It is frequently observed in Mediterranean climates, including Andalusia and the Sierra Nevada.
While many sources refer to this as Iphiclides feisthamelii, it is sometimes referred to as a subspecies of the Southern Scarce Swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) by certain authorities, although I. feisthamelii has darker, broader stripes.
