Peacock butterfly is common in Denmark. Wingspan: 52-65 mm. The flight period is from March to June and from July to October, after which they overwinter until the following March (as Imago). As an absolute habitat generalist, the species is found everywhere, and as the species also migrates, it can be found even in very stinging nettle-sparse areas such as the westernmost dune systems in West Jutland.
Status in this countryCommon in DenmarkLC (Least concern)
Flight period
The flight period is from March to June and from July to October, after which they overwinter until next March (as Imago).
Habitat
As an absolute habitat generalist, the species is observed everywhere, and as it also migrates, it can be found even in stinging nettle-sparse areas such as the westernmost dune systems in West Jutland. It is a frequent visitor to garden butterfly bushes.
Identifying features
Wingspan: 52-65 mm. The upperside is dark red with large eyespots on both sets of wings.
Similar species
Recognisable by its eyespots, and it cannot be confused with any other butterfly. In flight, however, the species can be confused with both red admiral and mourning cloak.
Distribution
The species is common and widespread throughout the country, as it is also found in most regions of Europe.
Biology
In our latitude, Peacock butterfly typically has only one generation per year. After emerging from their winter dormancy, the hungry butterflies appear in March-April, at which point they lay eggs on nettle during April-May.
