Peacock Butterfly

The European Peacock (Inachis io) is one of the most beutiful butterflies living in Polish mountains. The butterfly measures about 5 cm (2 inches) from wingtip to wingtip. It is easy to identify thanks to its striking eye pattern. However, when its wings are closed, the butterfly is much harder to spot as its dark coloured underwings make it look like a dead leaf. The females lay eggs in early spring usually in stinging nettle (Urtica). These butterflies hibernate in winter. Phographed on Drahuzowa Glade below Mount Diabla. The Low Beskid - August 26, 2007.