Red Admiral
Image: Sailko (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Common NameRed Admiral
Scientific NameVanessa atalanta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, meadows, urban areas, often found near nettle patches.
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa, North America, and parts of Central America.
Host PlantsCommon Nettle (Urtica dioica), Pellitory (Parietaria species), False Nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, can be seen almost year-round in warmer regions; migratory in temperate zones, appearing from spring to autumn.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are spiny, dark with yellow stripes, and create leaf shelters. Pupae are typically brown or grey, sometimes with metallic spots.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the prominent orange-red bands on black wings and the white spots at the forewing apex. The underside is cryptically patterned for camouflage.
Description
This striking butterfly features velvety black wings adorned with broad, vibrant orange-red bands across both forewings and hindwings, complemented by white spots near the forewing tips.
