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Rhodes, Greece October 2018
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Crete, Greece, October 2017
Field notes and information
Clearly a relative of the well known monarch, D. plexippus, this species is slightly smaller. Rather more widespread but very scarce in coastal areas of the Mediterranean from Spain to Greece. It has a world wide distribution, I've found it in Europe, Africa, India, parts of Thailand and also tropical east coast of Australia. This must make it one of the most widespread species in the world!
Identification & Similar species: There is almost no variation recorded across its vast worldwide range. There are exceptions in a few places such as east Africa where additional forms are present and appear to be controlled by Mendelian genetics - why the effect is localised is not clear.
Distribution & Flight: Mediterranean coasts from Spain, where it is most frequent, to Greece, but absent from large parts of the cost. North Africa in Morocco to Tunisia where it can be found well inland. Seemingly greatly reduced in the Canary Islands now. Flies at all times of the year, with a period of relative inactivity in winter.
Habitat & Behaviour: A powerful species, roaming widely. Frequents hot dry places.
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Crete, Greece, October 2017
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Crete, Greece, June 2018
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Tenerife, Spain, August 2021
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Crete, Greece, October 2017
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Rhodes, Greece October 2018
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Crete, Greece, June 2018
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Malaga, Spain, October 2021
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La Gomera, Spain, August 2021
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La Gomera, Spain, August 2021
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La Gomera, Spain, August 2021
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Crete, Greece, June 2018
Larval food plant in flower, stranglewort, Cynanchum acutum.