Both Sides - _TNY_9042
The European peacock (Aglais io) is generally thought of as a red butterfly with blue "eyes" on the wings. It however hibernates through winter in adult form and at that time, it is a distinct advantage to be inconspicuous so the underside seen here is dark brown, almost black, for "stealth mode".
Before being included in the genus Aglais, this species was the sole member of the genus Inachis, named after the first king of Argos in Ancient Greece.
The preceeding shot has it with the wings fully closed here: www.flickr.com/photos/tinyturtle/53893296661/
For a shot showing the dorsal side, have a look here: www.flickr.com/photos/tinyturtle/53737268518/
Both Sides - _TNY_9042
The European peacock (Aglais io) is generally thought of as a red butterfly with blue "eyes" on the wings. It however hibernates through winter in adult form and at that time, it is a distinct advantage to be inconspicuous so the underside seen here is dark brown, almost black, for "stealth mode".
Before being included in the genus Aglais, this species was the sole member of the genus Inachis, named after the first king of Argos in Ancient Greece.
The preceeding shot has it with the wings fully closed here: www.flickr.com/photos/tinyturtle/53893296661/
For a shot showing the dorsal side, have a look here: www.flickr.com/photos/tinyturtle/53737268518/