A striking almost black butterfly with distinctive orange bands across the upper forewings and to the margins of the hindwings, which include a blue patch on the inner wing. There are white patches on the top corner of the forewings. Similarly coloured, although paler on the forewing underside, the hindwing looks almost like bark and is a dull brown colour generally. The caterpillar is fleshy and dark grey/brown in colour, spiny with yellow markings on each side.
This familiar and distinctive insect may be found anywhere in Britain and Ireland and in all habitat types. There is an indication that numbers have increased in recent years and that overwintering has occurred in the far south of England.
This strong-flying migratory species may be seen throughout Britain and Ireland and in almost any habitat, from sea-shore to town centres and the tops of mountains. In spring, each newly arrived male defends its chosen territory vigorously. These territories are situated initially close to the south coast, then further inland and typically on bushy hillsides, in corners of sheltered gardens, or in sunny clearings in woodland or parkland, and may be held for a week or more if conditions are suitable for flight. Females are usually seen near nettle beds except when nectaring. Later in the season, any flower-rich habitat is likely to attract the butterfly, including gardens where buddleias, stonecrops, and Michaelmas-daisies are all popular with Red Admirals. They also favour orchards where fruit is rotting on the ground.
Numbers of this butterfly vary from year to year, and occasionally sightings may be scarce.
Red Admiral butterflies are generally migratory, arriving each year from the Mediterranean. Those which choose to remain in the British Isles over winter usually perish. In the 18th century, this butterfly was referred to as the 'Admirable' due to its bright colours. Unlike almost all other butterflies, the Red Admiral often flies at night.
