Common name : Mountain apollo
Scientific name : Parnassius apollo
Family : Papilionidae
Native to : Continental Europe, Central Europe and Alps
Interesting fact : The apollo has large eye-like spots on both its wings so as to distract its enemy. Another important defence mechanism is its foul taste.
The apollo’s diet is comprised of flowers, specifically in a plant species known as sedum stenopetalum which is very bitter in taste. As a result of its diet, it releases a foul odour to repel its predators. The apollo requires open spaces with a cold wintry climate or bright sunny climate. Eggs are laid in winter, and hatch in the spring of the next year.
