The Old World Swallowtail is a polymorphic species
(meaning many forms). It is typically and primarily
a yellow butterfly, very similar to the Anise Swallowtail.
The wing pattern is similar across both sexes,
but the females are usually larger in size than
the males. Wings are yellow with a significant
black dusting making this black edged butterfly
one
of the most recognized and widespread butterflies
in the world. The Old World Swallowtail, Papilio
machaon in Latin, is the most common Swallowtail
of Europe. In England it is just called a Swallowtail
because of lack of other Papilio species in that
area. Some of the other names its know by are:
European Swallowtail and Queen's Swallowtail.
It often occurs in marshlands, open hilltops, mountain
meadows, tundra, along streams, rivers, and lakes.
In addition, it prefers flowery places and moist
meadows. It can often be found in private gardens
where butterfly edible plants are thriving. Old
world Swallowtails are very capable fliers and
occasionally they are even observed far away
from its their original range because of this.
Swallowtails, as with all butterflies, have played
a major part in human history, art and culture
throughout the ages. It is one of the few insects
that people are attracted to because its beauty, grace,
and gentle appearance are undeniable. A sample
of history and folklore of the butterfly can found
within the Native American culture. According to
the American Indian Legend, if anyone desires a
wish to come true they must first capture a butterfly
and whisper their wish to it. Since a butterfly
can make no sound, the butterfly can not reveal
the wish to anyone but the Great Spirit who hears
and sees all. In gratitude for giving the beautiful
butterfly its freedom, the Great Spirit always
grants your wish. Our Swallowtail electronic
butterfly Add-on kits are also silent because they
use memory wire "muscle", a technology that makes
their wings flap around 6 times per minute. These
electronic butterflies have a very natural wing
movement just like a real butterfly has when it
is resting in between flying bouts. If you are
setting up a natural display indoors in your home
or office use multiple dragonflies,
moths and butterflies to make a lasting impression. |
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