Red Admiral
Image: Miami U. Libraries - Digital Collections (No restrictions)
Common NameRed Admiral
Scientific NameVanessa atalanta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white, blue
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, open fields, forest edges, urban areas
Geographic RangeNorth America, Europe, Asia, North Africa
Host Plantsstinging nettle, false nettle, pellitory
Flight PeriodSpring to autumn (multiple broods), year-round in warmer climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants, primarily nettles. Caterpillars are spiny, often dark with yellow markings, and feed within a silken tent. Pupae are chrysalides, typically brown or green, hanging head down.
Identification TipsKey features include the broad orange-red band on the forewing and the orange-red submarginal band on the hindwing, set against a dark background. White spots near the forewing tip are also distinctive.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings, characterized by a prominent orange-red band across the forewing and a submarginal orange-red band on the hindwing, complemented by white spots on the forewing apex and small blue markings.
