Our insect of the week for January 19, 2026 is the red admiral butterfly (Vanessa atalanta). It was described by Linnaeus in 1758.

This species is known throughout temperate regions of North America including central Illinois, central America, North Africa, Europe and Asia. It has also been recorded on islands in the Caribbean and Hawaii (I have personally seem adults flying on the “big island”). Adults are often observed in moist woodlands. Adults are considered “calm” in that they often allow for close observation before flying a short distance away. They also use humans as perches. Males are territorial and females will only mate with males who hold on to a territory.

Caterpillars often feed on stinging nettle.

There are typically 2 broods in Illinois (from March through October). As a general rule, this species does not overwinter in central Illinois. Our state is recolonized by migrants from southern Texas.

Adults have color vision (and likely see shades of indigo, blue, green, and yellow). Curiously, they likely can not see shades of orange and red (yet, they have prominent red patterns on their wings as adults).

Yes, this species has been rather well studied and I could say a lot more, but I leave that for others to comment upon.

The specimen in this photograph was collected (and photographed) by Frank Hitchell in Peoria County, Illinois.