Insect 🦋
🦋
Vanessa atalanta
| Size | 67–72 mm wingspan About as wide as a credit card |
|---|---|
| Weight | 0.5 g Barely anything — lighter than a paperclip |
| Lifespan | Several months as adult |
| Rarity | Common |
| M vs F | Males and females look nearly identical, though males are slightly smaller and more territorial |
| Habitat | Gardens, woodland rides, coastlines, meadows |
| Best time | May–October, peak August–September |
| Conservation | UK: Green LC |
Did you know?
The Red Admiral can taste with its feet! It has taste receptors on its tarsi that detect sugars as soon as it lands on a flower or fruit.
The Red Admiral can taste with its feet! It has taste receptors on its tarsi that detect sugars as soon as it lands on a flower or fruit.
More for experts
Most Red Admirals in the UK are migrants from southern Europe, arriving in spring. Some overwinter here now — thought to be an effect of milder winters. Their caterpillars feed exclusively on nettles.
Often confused with
Painted Lady, Camberwell Beauty
Painted Lady, Camberwell Beauty