Species profile
About this species
The Scarce Swallowtail is a large & striking butterfly found across much of Europe & Asia, recognised by its pale yellow-white wings marked with bold black stripes & distinctive red & blue eyespots near the tail. It has characteristic long, slender tails on its hindwings, giving it an elegant appearance in flight. Despite its name, it can be locally common in warm, sunny habitats across southern & central Europe.
Warm, sheltered hillsides, scrubby woodland edges, orchards & gardens with flowering shrubs, particularly in areas with blackthorn & wild cherry which serve as larval foodplants. Most commonly encountered in southern & central Europe at low to moderate altitudes.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Scarce Swallowtail with us in Bulgaria.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer - May to June - is ideal, with a second brood appearing in July & August. Photograph on warm, sunny mornings between 9am & midday when butterflies are most active & wings are fully open for basking.
Approach slowly & patiently when the butterfly is feeding on flowers such as thistles or buddleia, as it tends to remain settled for longer periods. Use a macro or short telephoto lens in the 100-200mm range to capture fine wing detail without disturbing the subject. Shoot at a low angle to place the background out of focus & reveal the full beauty of the wing patterning against a clean backdrop.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Scarce Swallowtail
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.