Unknown Species of Swallowtail Like Butterfly
Posted: Mon Aug 14, 2006 5:58 pm
Living in South Cumbria, I was more than a little surprised to see an Butterfly showing chracteristics of a Swallowtail in the garden this morning.
I have had experience of the Common Swallowtail in Continental Europe and this clearly was not one. It was predominantely white - the markings were more reminiscent of a Large White, although the size and presence of a swallowtail clearly meant it wasn't.
There was surprisingly little black on the forewing - just really at the tips. Again not like Common or Scarce. The butterfly was in good condition with little sign of abrasion.
I am a reasonably experienced butterfly observer, but am completely mystified and cannot see it in any of the European guides.
Phil
I have had experience of the Common Swallowtail in Continental Europe and this clearly was not one. It was predominantely white - the markings were more reminiscent of a Large White, although the size and presence of a swallowtail clearly meant it wasn't.
There was surprisingly little black on the forewing - just really at the tips. Again not like Common or Scarce. The butterfly was in good condition with little sign of abrasion.
I am a reasonably experienced butterfly observer, but am completely mystified and cannot see it in any of the European guides.
Phil