Peacock Butterfly

Nymphalidae
FamilyNymphalidae
Scientific NameAglais io
RangeEurope, Asia
HabitatGardens, woodlands

About the Peacock Butterfly

Named for their spectacular eye-spots that resemble peacock feathers. When threatened, they suddenly open their wings to flash these spots, startling predators. They hibernate as adults in hollow trees and attics, one of few butterflies that overwinter as adults in cold climates. Their wing undersides are nearly black, making them almost invisible when closed. Can live up to 11 months — exceptionally long for a butterfly.

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