The European peacock butterfly has a wingspan of 50 to 55 mm. The base color of the wings is a rusty red, and at each wingtip it bears a distinctive, black, blue and yellow eyespot. In stark contrast to the brightly colored upper surfaces, the undersides of the wings are dull brown. The sexes are similar in appearance, but females are slightly larger.
This beautiful butterfly is well-known and instantly recognizable thanks to its unique patterning. The stunning eyespots, which earn this species its common name, frighten predators, or divert birds from attacking the body.
The breeding habitat of the European peacock butterfly typically consists of large patches of nettles, in sunny areas sheltered by woodland or hedges. The caterpillar, which grows to 4 cm in length, has a black, spine-covered body freckled with fine white spots. Larvae feed in late spring and early summer. Adults emerge in summer and overwinter until the following spring.