Insects
Swallowtail
Papilio machaon · Coada rândunicii
A large yellow-and-black butterfly with tail streamers on its hindwings, seen over flowery meadows.
At a glance
- Habitat
- Meadow
- Activity
- Daytime
- Diet
- Caterpillars feed on plants of the carrot family; adults drink nectar.
- Photography difficulty
- Moderate
Identification
Pale yellow wings with black veins and bands, blue and red spots near the hindwing tails.
Habitat
Flower-rich meadows, hillsides and gardens.
Distribution
Widespread across Europe, Asia and North America, including Romania.
Approximate range in Romania
When it is active
Daytime
Diet
Caterpillars feed on plants of the carrot family; adults drink nectar.
Seasonality in Romania
How to find it
Sunny meadows and hilltops in warm weather.
Photography
General guidance based on the species’ behaviour, not a report of Nick’s personal field experience.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Light
- Easiest early in the morning, when butterflies are still cool and less active.
Practical starting points, not fixed rules.