Peacock

National Status

Common as far north as Central Scotland, range expanding. Population trend 10 years to 2016 +21%; since 1976 +17%.

West Midlands Status

Common throughout the region, range stable. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – strong increase.

Habitat

Wide range of habitats including woodland rides, meadows, hedgerows and particularly in gardens nectaring on buddleias (Buddleja spp).

Flight Period

Overwintering adults may be recorded as early as January on warmer, sunny days but most emerge from hibernation in late March and early April. These mate and most have disappeared by mid-May. The new generation appears in mid-July but the butterflies are on the wing for only a short time, as they hibernate early compared with other hibernating species.

Hotspots

Gardens in late summer.

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplant is Common Nettle (Urtica dioica). Hop (Humulus lupulus) and Small Nettle (Urtica urens) are also used.