Nature and wildlife

A fragile symbol of alpine landscapes, the Apollo reminds us of the richness—and vulnerability—of mountain biodiversity.

Emerging each summer on the sun-drenched slopes of the Alps, the Apollo (Parnassius apollo) is one of Europe’s most iconic and protected butterfly species.

Its white wings, dotted with black spots and two distinctive red ocelli (eyespots), serve a vital purpose: startling predators by mimicking the eyes of a larger animal. Highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, the Apollo acts as a “barometer” for climate change. Its larvae depend exclusively on stonecrop plants (Sedum) found in rocky screes. As alpine habitats change, this species is increasingly forced to seek refuge at higher altitudes to survive.