European Peacock
Image: MarianaSenkiv (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameEuropean Peacock
Scientific NameAglais io
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsorange, red, blue, black
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, meadows, hedgerows, open country
Geographic RangeEurope and temperate Asia, from the British Isles to Japan
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Humulus lupulus
Flight PeriodMarch to October (overwinters as adult)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on nettle leaves. Larvae are black and spiny, living gregariously. Adults emerge in summer, feed, and then overwinter in sheltered places before re-emerging in spring to breed.
Identification TipsThe four prominent, iridescent blue and black eyespots on the upper side of the wings are unmistakable. The underside is dark and cryptic, resembling a dead leaf when at rest.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking reddish-brown wings, each bearing a large, iridescent blue and black eyespot on both forewings and hindwings.
