(Linnaeus, 1758)
Apollo
Description:
The Apollo occurs in mountainous areas on steep, sunny slopes with sparse vegetation. In Europe, there are many different subspecies, forms and aberrations, because of the very divided nature of the distribution area. Separated by mountains, the populations develop independently of one another, so that quite marked differences arise. However, their ecology is similar. The Apollo is mostly seen flying below the tree-line, while the Small Apollo (P. phoebus) occurs above it. The butterflies are fond of visiting thistles and other flowering plants for their nectar.
The female lays her eggs singly or in small groups on or near the food plant stonecrop (Sedum spp.). The eggs develop but the tiny caterpillar hibernates inside the eggshell. It emerges in the spring, and starts feeding on the buds of the food plant. The caterpillars of later instars also eat the leaves. When it is time to pupate, the caterpillars look for a safe place between the stones, where they then spin a flimsy cocoon in which to change into a chrysalis.
The Apollo is single-brooded.
Habitat:
Alpine grasslands
Dry calcareous grasslands
Inland cliffs and exposed rocks
Similar species:
Papilio machaon
Papilio hospiton
Papilio alexanor