" " All around the world, swallowtail butterflies brighten skies while pollinating plants. Wirestock Creators / ShutterstockFew insects are as eye-catching as the swallowtail butterfly. Known for their vibrant colors and uniquely shaped hind wings, swallowtails belong to the family Papilionidae and are found worldwide except in the Arctic regions. These butterflies aren't just beautiful; they're essential to the ecology of forests, fields, and gardens.