Red AdmiralEnlarge

Red AdmiralEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

CaterpillarEnlarge	ChrysalisEnlarge

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral is an admired butterfly, popular in much of North America, Asia, and Europe. This butterfly enjoys many types of environments and has a strong affinity to flowers. The males are territorial and many times can be found in the same location day to day. The undersides of the wings are a mottled brown and tan with a curved bright red color on the upper side of the brown/black wings. Although a quick flier, this beauty is a more docile butterfly, it tends to be a friendly visitor in gardens.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: True Brushfoot (Nymphalinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 3/4" - 3"

Habitat: Streamsides, fields, parks, gardens

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Aster, Butterfly Bush, Common Milkweed, Shasta Daisy
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  False Nettle*

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Open wing - Fred Miller
Closed wing - Fred Miller
Caterpillar - Fred Miller
Chrysalis - Fred Miller