Woken Red Admiral advice please

[werdnal]

Sitting here this evening watching TV, when suddenly aware of something fluttering around the room. It was a RA, probably brought in from our wood store on some logs, and brought out of its slumbers when the room warmed up. We have had this problem before, and its difficult to know what to do with them as its really cold outside tonight, with frost forecast for rest of the week. I caught it in a jar, and took in out to our wood pile (next year's supply) and put it in amongst the wood for some protection. Is this any good? What should I do if we find another (its quite a common thing once we start lighting the fires regularly and bringing in more logs). Any advice appreciated.

Thanks

[Dogghound]

I would either release it in the daytime when the temperature has increased, or I would release it into a sheltered location such as an old shed, or garage providing it can get out, maybe even your loft if you have gaps under the tiles.

[faz]

think might be to warm in the loft day time sounds about right so it can find a place to over winter before dark and temps drop

[Dogghound]

Just depends on the loft, some particularly in older houses are suitable.

[faz]

true but day time is better me thinks

[Red Robin]

Had the same experience a few weeks ago with a Peacock butterfly. It's asleep/hibernating in a glass jar for now.

When do they usually wake up from hibernation?

[Dogghound]

Originally Posted by Red Robin

When do they usually wake up from hibernation?

When the temperature becomes warm and remains warm for a moderate period of time. Usually sometime in March for peacocks but this really depends on what sort of spring we have.

Where are you keeping the jar?

[aeshna5]

Originally Posted by Red Robin

Had the same experience a few weeks ago with a Peacock butterfly. It's asleep/hibernating in a glass jar for now.

When do they usually wake up from hibernation?

They can emerge any time there is suitable warmth- usually March onwards, but occasionally individuals will be found any time through the winter. I remember one warm Feb day when I saw 4 species of butterfly in flight.

The disadvantage of emerging too early is that there are few nectar sources available, especialy away from parks + gardens.

[Red Robin]

Originally Posted by Dogghound

When the temperature becomes warm and remains warm for a moderate period of time. Usually sometime in March for peacocks but this really depends on what sort of spring we have.

Where are you keeping the jar?

.....Currently in my utility room.

[Vectisbirder]

I found a Peacock butterfly in my bedroom just now. I heard a rustling, skittering noise and, fearing a mouse, went to investigate. I've put him in the shed where, hopefully, he'll (or she) be safe until the spring.