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Animal profile

European Peacock

Aglais io

InsectaWoodland edges, gardens, meadows and hedgerows across temperate Europe

Field profile

A deep red nymphalid with four large eyespots, one on each wing. Caterpillars feed gregariously on stinging nettle. Adults overwinter as adults in sheds, hollow trees and outbuildings, emerging on the first warm days of spring.

Scope note

This is an editorial profile, not a diagnostic field-identification guide or a substitute for current conservation assessments. Follow the cited sources on each fact for the evidence trail.

Published field notes

2026-02-12

European Peacock

The peacock butterfly hisses when handled

Disturbed peacocks snap their wings open to display four eyespots, and the same motion rubs wing bases together to produce a rasping hiss. Experiments with mice and birds show the sound and the spots deter different predators.

Read with evidence →

European Peacock | Daily Animal Facts