Parnassian and Swallowtail Butterflies (Papilionidae)
Invertebrates Around Las Vegas, Wildlife Around Las Vegas
Lepidopterans | Butterflies

There are two subfamilies in the family Papilionidae, the Parnassians (Parnassiinae) and the Swallowtails (Papilioninae). The Parnassians (Parnassiinae) are recognized by their dark, heavy body and their pale colors overall. The wings are translucent. These are butterflies of high mountains and the far north. The Swallowtails (Papilionidae) are recognized by their large size, bright colors, and narrow tail projections on the trailing edge of the hindwing.