Old World Swallowtail - Machaon

This beautiful Old World Swallowtail was encountered at the very top of its altitude range. This species can be found in alpine meadows and hillsides, and males practice 'hilltopping', where they congrate near summits to compete for passing females. This specimen, in good shape for late summer, was spotted alone. After warming up briefly it fast disappeared with the powerful flight typical of the species.