Inachis io - Peacock. 50—60mm. One of the most common butterflies, distributed throughout the whole Palaearctic, with the exception of northern Africa. It has one or two generations, depending on climate. The adults hibernate. The caterpillars live gregariously on nettles or hops. The Peacock seems to be one of the few species relatively unaffected by civilization — probably due to the increasing amount of waste ground rich in nitrogen providing favourable conditions for nettles. The adults find plenty of nectar in clover fields and city flower-beds. In spring the Peacock and other vanessid butterflies are amongst the most beautiful signs of the reawakening of nature.
Text from: A field Guide in Colour to Butterflies and Moths (1982) Ivo Novak. Octopus
