Butterfly

Description:

Measuring about 6.5 cm during the cold this species migrates to the nicest places to go reaching more than 2000 km in search of a better environment for their survival. Flying powerful moves even at night.

Habitat:

This is one of the largest butterflies in North America and Europe. Is present in southern Europe, North Africa and Asia. Recently been introduced in several regions, from Canada to Hawaii and New Zealand. In Portugal it is quite common and can be observed throughout the country Adults prefer open spaces with flowers, woods, meadows, gardens and forests not very dense. It is more frequent in the lowlands, but may be found in coastal regions and on top of the Serra da Estrela.

Notes:

This species uses stealth techniques to escape from their predators. When in the open lands and rocks keeps getting its wings closed up due to camouflaging color of the underside of the wings. When lands in local flower keeps its wings confusing predators with the colorful landscape. They feed on nettle leaves, small caterpillars and nectar from flowers and pieces of decaying fruit. The name Red Admiral is due to their colors reminiscent of American naval uniform currency.