Red butterflies are undoubtedly striking, so much so, that there are many myths and symbols surrounding them.
As a matter of fact, some Native American tribes believe that a red butterfly is a sign of a powerful spirit.
On the other hand, a red butterfly was actually believed to be a disguised witch in ancient Scotland!
Today we introduce you to five stunning red butterflies from around the world.
Red Lacewing
Scientific name: Cethosia bilbis
From: Australia, South-East Asia
Host plant: Adenia heterophylla
Fun fact: This ruby red butterfly is the only predominately red butterfly in Australia. You can meet them at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.
Scarlet Peacock
Scientific name: Anartia amathea
From: South America
Host plant: Acanthaceae
Fun fact: The stunning Scarlet Peacock butterfly is known to group in large masses of hundreds of butterflies, although it is very rare to spot.
Red Admiral
Scientific name: Vanessa atalanta
From: North Africa, North America, South America, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean
Host plant: Stinging nettle and false nettle
Fun fact: This butterfly is known to hibernate and individual butterflies emerge from hibernation with darker colouring.
Peacock Butterfly
Scientific name: Aglais io
From: Great Britain and Europe
Host plant: Common nettle
Fun fact: The red peacock has large eyespots that confuses predators into thinking that it is a larger animal, such as an owl.
Postman Butterfly
Scientific name: Heliconius melpomene
From: Mexico, Central America
Host plant: Passiflora
Fun fact: The patterns on the wings of these red butterflies vary greatly due to their geographical locations.
