Invertebrates
Peacock Butterfly
Aglais io · also called European peacock
On a sunny garden wall in early spring, a peacock butterfly opens its wings to reveal four staring eyespots, then snaps them shut and hisses at an approaching bird.
Overview
The peacock butterfly, Aglais io, is a Least Concern butterfly found across Europe and temperate Asia. Its bold eyespots, hissing defence, and adult hibernation make it one of the most familiar and most recognisable butterflies in gardens and woodland edges.
A butterfly with a startling defence
With dark, camouflaged undersides and flashing eyespots on top, the peacock butterfly can vanish at rest and then surprise a predator in a moment.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common.
Peacock Butterfly: common questions
Why is it called the peacock butterfly?
Each wing carries a large eyespot, like the eyes on a peacock's tail feathers.
Why does the peacock butterfly hiss?
When disturbed, it flicks its wings open and rubs parts of them together to make a hissing sound that can startle predators.
Does the peacock butterfly hibernate?
Yes, it spends the winter as an adult, tucked away in hollow trees, sheds, and woodpiles.
What do peacock butterfly caterpillars eat?
They feed together in groups on stinging nettle.