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Good to know
Six things about the peacock
EyesEyes on the wings
The big eyespots on a peacock butterfly flash open to startle birds, which can mistake them for the eyes of something much bigger.
SoundA hiss in the dark
Disturbed while hibernating, peacocks rub their wings together to make a hissing click that's been shown to scare off mice.
FoodNettle beginnings
The caterpillars are black and spiky and feed together on stinging nettles, which is a good reason to leave a wild corner in the garden.
WinterEarly riser
Adults sleep through winter in sheds, hollow trees and lofts, which is why peacocks are one of the first butterflies you see in spring.
TasteTasting with their feet
Butterflies have taste sensors on their feet, so landing on a leaf tells them straight away whether it is the right plant.
SunSolar powered
Butterflies can't fly when they're cold. You'll often see them resting with their wings spread open, soaking up the sun.
The real thing
Photos of the peacock
Out and aboutHow to spot one
Check buddleia, sedum and ivy on sunny days in late summer. In early spring, look for ones basking on bare ground after waking from hibernation.
Lend a handHow to help
Leave a patch of nettles in full sun for its caterpillars. Take care in sheds in winter, as they hibernate there with their wings closed.
Following youLadybird
Who should follow you?
Bees and hoverflies
Butterflies and moths
Dragonflies and damselflies
Beetles, hoppers and ants
Not insects at all
Snails and spiders aren't insects: a snail is a mollusc, and spiders have eight legs.
Garden birds
Pond animals live on the Pond page: choosing one takes you there.
Pond life
Night garden
Seashore animals live on the Seashore page: choosing one takes you there.
Rock pool life
Woodland animals
Under a log
Meadow life
River animals live on the River page: choosing one takes you there.
River life
