RED ADMIRAL

[giddygal]

Have just joined this interesting site and am very new to the art of spotting different butterflies.

I took a photo of the Red Admiral on 9/3/2009 at 15:14:01. The Fratillery I missed. Is this early for these butterflies?

Also, am on the look-out for the Peacock in a country Lane. I know they must use this lane as I saw some hovering about there last August, where the stinging nettles grew. I would like to see some grubs soon and take them home to preserve them from the birds and so will have a chance to survive.

I know these are moths but I am waiting for three Elephant Hawk moths to emerge later on. Have got them in a special box where they have hibernated for the winter

GIDDYGAL

[Pete Eeles]

Hi Giddygal - and welcome!

The "fritillary" you saw is more-likely to be a Comma. Both Comma and Red Admiral overwinter as adults (as do Peacock, Brimstone and Small Tortoiseshell), although the Red Admiral has only been able to overwinter since the winters became milder - so you're very lucky to see one!

Cheers,

- Pete

[eccles]

Good luck with the elephant hawks. They're very beautiful moths.