Peacock, Inachis io

Identification

Large; wingspan, 60mm to 70mm.

Both sexes are a rich, velvety, red brown with prominent eyes at the corners of all four wings; those on the hind wings being clearer and more distinct than those on the forewings. The under-wings are a dark slate-grey with darker marking and lines on the hind-wings and lighter coloured patches on the forewings. The wings are smoothly scalloped but not to the degree found in the Comma, Polygonia c-album.

Behaviour and life history

The Peacock is a strong flier and covers large areas in its search for nectar and suitable breeding sites. It is not colonial. Adults over-winter before producing a single brood. They emerge from hibernation in late March or April before laying their eggs during May. Caterpillars are around for most of June before they pupate in late June/July. Adults emerge during the second half of July and August and can be on the wing until October. There is rarely a second brood. Caterpillars feed on the Common Nettle, Urtica dioica.

Where to look for it

The Peacock can turn up almost anywhere in the city and is a common visitor to gardens and parks. However, its preferred habitats include sheltered lanes, woodland glades, rides and margins, and sunny hedgerows. The butterfly is particularly attracted to the Butterfly-bush, Buddleja davidii, in late Summer.

Distribution and status

Common and widespread throughout the city.

When to look for it

Adults can be seen at any time between March and October, or even later, except during much of June and July when the first brood undergoes its larval and pupal development.

Similar species

Its eyes on the wings make this species unmistakeable.

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