Apollo (Parnassius apollo)

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This stunning animal is perhaps the butterfly icon of high alpine meadows across Europe.  I was lucky enough to see it in Spain, but I've described it in the Butterflies of France section of the site.

 

 

Common Swallowtail (Papilio machaon)

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Izki Parque Natural, Alava
Although common across most of Europe, this butterfly remains an exotic and exciting sight for someone from Britain, where the species clings on in a few special sites.

The extensive black markings on a pale yellow background separate from the Scarce Swallowtail, which is largely silvery-white with black 'tiger stripes'.

 

 

 

 

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