The butterfly is also known as the Common Yellow Swallowtail or, simply, The Swallowtail (a common name applied to all members of the family). It is the type species of the genus Papilio and occurs throughout the Palearctic region in Europe and Asia; it also occurs across North America, and thus is not restricted to the Old World, despite the common name.
This striking butterfly is yellow with black wing and vein markings and a wingspan of 8 to 10 cm. The hind wings of both sexes have a pair of protruding tails which give the butterfly its common name. Just below each tail is a red eye spot.

At lower elevations these butterflies fly from March to September. At higher elevations the butterflies are limited by the short summer seasons.

Widespread throughout Eurasia, often common and not threatened as a species. Protected by law in six provinces of Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.

The butterfly has a strong and fast flight but frequently pauses to hover over flowering herbs and sip nectar. It frequents the alpine meadows and hillsides and is fond of 'hilltopping'. At lower elevations it can also be seen visiting gardens