5) Peacock Butterflies

Peacock butterflies have a wingspan of about 60 mm. (6 cm.). They get the name "peacock" because of their "eyes" on their wings that resemble the tail of a peacock (the bird). They are one of the six sights of Spring that the BBC programme Springwatch use.

The caterpillers are black, with white spots & spines.

You can see these wonders in gardens, orchards, and other places with lots of flowers across most of Europe and Asia. In Winter, mature (pregnant) individuals hibernate, so don't expect to see them then. But they are very common, so during Spring & Summer, look out for them.

If you find one & take a picture of it, I can give you my e-mail so you can send it to me, then I will post it up here. But no getting it off the internet!