Red Admiral
Image: Otto Marseus van Schrieck (Public domain)
Common NameRed Admiral
Scientific NameVanessa atalanta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, open country, forest edges, meadows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia, North America, Central America, Caribbean
Host Plantsstinging nettle, pellitory
Flight PeriodMarch to November
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are spiny, dark, and feed on nettles, often creating a leaf shelter. Pupation occurs in a chrysalis suspended from a leaf.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the broad, diagonal orange-red band on the black forewings and the distinct white spots near the wing tips. The hindwings are mostly black with a red marginal band containing black spots.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with velvety black wings, a striking orange-red band across the forewings, and a row of white spots near the forewing apex.
