12/06/2026
The Butterfly Conservation charity has announced today, after a public vote, that Britain’s favourite Butterfly is the beautiful Peacock Butterfly!
Peacock Butterflies (Aglais Io) are widespread across the UK and are one of our most common species. They have a wingspan of 6-7cm with the females being larger than the males. When they feel threatened, they can make a hissing sound created by rubbing the veins on their forewings and hindwings together. The azure ‘eyes’ on their wings help to ward off predators. Peacock butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as; thistles, dandelions and teasels, but buddleia is a particular favourite of theirs! The Peacock butterfly caterpillars eat the leaves of hop and nettles. Peacock butterflies can live for up to 11 months!
Canon UK Butterfly Conservation The Wildlife Trust for Beds, Cambs & Northants Wildlife Trust BCN: Northamptonshire Team The Wildlife Trusts
