Swallowtails (Papilionidae) reach their greatest diversity in the tropics. In Europe they are represented by 12 species, and in our country five live. Butterflies from this family are among our largest and thus also the most conspicuous diurnal butterflies. Of our species, only the swallowtail larva is green and has a protective coloration. The other species have caterpillars with contrasting patterns that deter predators with vivid colors. Some species' caterpillars also have a developed forked organ (osmeterium) of orange color, which emits an unpleasant odor. When the caterpillar feels threatened, it everts it and thereby repels the predator that is trying to eat it.
Regarding the coloration of adult butterflies, differences between sexes are small, but the sexes are well distinguishable mainly by size and the shape of the abdomen. Female butterflies are usually larger and more plump than males, and thus can carry numerous eggs in the abdomen. The same applies to butterflies of other families.
