Red Admiral (wings closed)

Description:

The Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) is a well-known colourful butterfly, found in temperate Europe, Asia and North America. The Red Admiral has a 45–50 mm (1.8–2.0 in) wing span.

Habitat:

In northern Europe, it is one of the last butterflies to be seen before winter sets in, often feeding on the flowers of ivy on sunny days. The Red Admiral is also known to hibernate, re-emerging individuals showing prominently darker colourings than first brood subjects. The butterfly also flies on sunny winter days, especially in southern Europe.The species is resident only in warmer areas, but migrates north in spring, and sometimes again in autumn.

Notes:

I have seen these butterflies more often seen in Belgium than the peacock (previous spotting).