Red Admiral
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 feeding on dead toad
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| Vanessa atalanta (Linnaeus, 1758) |
The Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) is a well-known colourful butterfly, found in temperate Europe, Asia and North America. The species is resident only in warmer areas, but migrates north in spring, and sometimes again in autumn. This large butterfly is identified by its striking dark brown, red and black wing pattern. The caterpillars feed on nettles, the adults drink from flowering plants like the Buddleia and overripe fruit.
In northern Europe, it is one of the last butterflies to be seen before winter sets, often feeding on the pale fire of ivy flowers on sunny days. The Red Admiral is also known to hibernate, re-emerging subjects showing prominently darker colourings than first brood subjects. The butterfly also flies in sunny winter days, especially in southern Europe.
[edit] References
- Red Admiral Butterfly: Large format reference quality (free) photographs Cirrus Digital Imaging
- Vanessa atalanta (TSN 188599). Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Accessed on 6 February 2006.
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