Size
Wing span: 1 3/4 - 2 1/2 inches (4.5 - 6.4 cm).(1)
Identification
Antenna has alternate black and white rings. Upperside of forewing of females and most males with 2 red or yellow spots beyond the cell. In some males these spots are black.(1)
Often called by the name Parnassius phoebus, a closely related Eurasian species. Many people consider North American populations to belong to that species, many prefer to separate them. Some authors split North American populations into more than one species; usually two, with part included in P. phoebus and part in P. smintheus.
Range
From New Mexico north along the Rocky Mountains and into southwest Alaska.(1)
Habitat
Open forests, meadows, grasslands.(1)
Season
One flight June-August.(1)
Food
Caterpillar hosts: Many species of stonecrop (Sedum) in the Crassulaceae family.
Adult food: Nectar from flowers of Sedum and Asteraceae family.(1)
Life Cycle
Males patrol close to the ground for receptive females. Females lay eggs singly on almost any surface. Caterpillars feed on leaves and occasionally flowers and fruits. Hibernate as eggs.(1)
