Peacock butterfly
Image: Charles J. Sharp (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NamePeacock butterfly
Scientific NameAglais io
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)57.5
Primary Colorsred, black, blue, brown
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, meadows, hedgerows, open country
Geographic RangeEurope and temperate Asia
Host PlantsCommon Nettle (Urtica dioica), Hop (Humulus lupulus)
Flight PeriodMarch to May, July to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on the underside of nettle leaves. Larvae are black, spiny, and gregarious, feeding on nettles. Pupae are typically green or brown, suspended head-down. Adults overwinter in sheltered places.
Identification TipsUnmistakable due to the large, vibrant blue and black eyespots on a reddish-brown background on both forewings and hindwings. The dark, cryptic underside is also characteristic when at rest.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with rich reddish-brown wings, each bearing a prominent, iridescent blue and black eyespot. The image depicts this butterfly as part of an art piece, with 'flowers' made from Adonis blue butterflies and 'leaves' from green hairstreak-like butterflies.
