Peacock Butterfly
Common NamePeacock Butterfly
Scientific NameAglais io
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, black, blue, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, parks, meadows, hedgerows, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope and temperate Asia, from Ireland to Japan
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Humulus lupulus
Flight PeriodMarch to October (overwintering adults emerge in spring, new generation in summer)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on the underside of nettle leaves. Larvae are spiny, black with white dots, and live gregariously. Pupae are typically green or brown, hanging head-down.
Identification TipsThe four large, prominent, iridescent blue and black eyespots on the upper side of the wings are unmistakable. The dark, almost black, underside is also distinctive when the wings are closed.
Description
The Peacock Butterfly is a striking butterfly with a rich reddish-brown ground color, featuring large, iridescent blue and black eyespots on each wing, resembling a peacock's feather. Its undersides are cryptically dark.
