The Papilio Machaon is a butterfly in Italy with nine different species.



In Italy it is found in the countryside and in the hills. Easily recognizable by its size, nearly 8 cm wingspan, and thanks to its beautiful and distinctive colouration.
Like other butterflies the Machaon begins his life as a caterpillar, with a green body and white spotted circular rings of yellow spots. The Caterpillar, during this period, they feed on fennel leaves and has a particularly meaty organ capable of emitting a foul-smelling aroma to ward off predators.



During the chrysalis, the Swallowtail is enclosed within a cocoon hanging directly to a branch, which held firmly anchored through the filaments sericeri.



As an adult the Machaon is the largest butterfly, the wings are embellished by beautiful yellow and black stripes, jagged end of a showy blue color and two red spots located on the hind wings.
Sex easily stands out, the male has a narrow abdomen and pointy ends while the female has swollen and round ends.

       

Female                                Male