European Peacock
Image: Jean-Louis Hamon (Public domain)
Common NameEuropean Peacock
Scientific NameAglais io
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, blue, black, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, meadows, gardens, parks, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope and temperate Asia, from the British Isles to Japan
Host PlantsCommon Nettle, Hop
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on nettle leaves. Larvae are black and spiny, feeding communally. Adults overwinter in sheltered places like tree hollows or outbuildings.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the four large, iridescent blue and black eyespots on the upper side of its wings, two on each hindwing and two smaller ones on the forewings, set against a reddish-brown background.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with rich reddish-brown wings, prominently featuring large, striking blue and black eyespots on the hindwings and smaller ones on the forewings.
