Head to head
Peacock Butterfly vs Red Admiral
Peacock Butterfly
VS Red Admiral
The peacock butterfly and red admiral are two familiar nettle-feeding butterflies of gardens and woodland edges, one famed for its eyespots and the other for its bold orange-red bands.
| Peacock Butterfly | Red Admiral | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Aglais io | Vanessa atalanta |
| Wings | A large eyespot on each wing, with dark, bark-like undersides | Bold orange-red bands crossing otherwise dark brown or black wings |
| Adult diet | Nectar from flowers such as buddleia and thistles | Often prefers tree sap, rotting fruit, and even animal dung over flower nectar |
| Caterpillars | Black, spiky caterpillars that feed together in groups on stinging nettle | Caterpillars that fold and tie nettle leaves together with silk to make a shelter |
| Winter or migration | Hibernates as an adult in hollow trees, sheds, and woodpiles | A genuine long-distance migrant, with individuals covering hundreds of kilometres |
| Range | Europe and temperate Asia as far as Japan | Most of North America, extending into Europe, Asia, and North Africa |
| Flight | Not specifically documented | A fast, strong, and somewhat erratic flier |
| Conservation status | Least Concern, with a stable population | Least Concern, with a stable population |
Peacock Butterfly vs Red Admiral: common questions
Which butterfly migrates long distances?
The red admiral, which undertakes real long-distance migrations, with individuals covering hundreds of kilometres.
Which butterfly has eyespots?
The peacock butterfly, which has a large eyespot on each wing.
What do the adults feed on?
The peacock butterfly drinks nectar from flowers, while the red admiral often prefers tree sap and rotting fruit.