Saw dark butterfly today - probably Peacock

[Geoff F]

Still cool but that bitter wind had dropped and the sun was doing it's best so I took a walk to Bolt Head, S. Devon, today. We have only had 1 cms of snow on one day so far this winter, but there were still a few patches of slushy ice around.

And on the coast path a fairly large dark butterfly was darting around. I never got a clear view but I suppose the time of year and it's somewhat fluttering indecisive flight made me think that a Peacock was the most likely.

I have often seen a few in this area during January and February in mild winters; but I certainly didn't expect to see one today.

[aeshna5]

I would also say Peacock was the most likely ; the only other possible contender for a dark butterfly at this time of year would probably be a Red Admiral.

[Geoff F]

Thanks for confirming my thoughts.

I always think that Peacocks tend to meander around rather aimlessly while Red Admirals have a more determined flight. But that isn't really a firm identification is it!