Red Admiral
Image: Attributed to Otto Marseus van Schrieck (Public domain)
Common NameRed Admiral
Scientific NameVanessa atalanta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, red, white
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, meadows, forest edges, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNorth America, Europe, Asia, North Africa, Caribbean
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Urtica urens, Humulus lupulus, Parietaria
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods, migratory)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on nettles. Larvae are spiny, often dark with yellow markings, and create leaf shelters. Pupae are chrysalides, typically brown or green, hanging head down.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, bright orange-red bands on the black forewings and hindwings, along with prominent white spots near the forewing tips. The underside is a complex mottled pattern.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with velvety black wings, striking orange-red bands across the forewings and hindwings, and white spots near the apex of the forewings.
