New Zealand Red Admiral vs Banded Peacock Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute New Zealand Red Admiral Banded Peacock Butterfly
Scientific Name Vanessa gonerilla Anartia fatima
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Nymphalidae Nymphalidae
Size 50-60 mm wingspan 55-65 mm wingspan
Habitat Gardens Grasslands
Diet Sap Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Oceania (New Zealand) Mexico, Central America, Colombia, Venezuela
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

New Zealand Red Admiral

An endemic New Zealand butterfly with striking red and black wing patterns. It is found throughout both main islands in bush margins and gardens. The larvae feed exclusively on native stinging nettle (ongaonga).

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike most butterflies, the New Zealand red admiral overwinters as an adult and can sometimes be seen flying on warm winter days.

Banded Peacock Butterfly

A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings crossed by a broad creamy-white band and orange wing bases. It is a fast, alert flier common in disturbed habitats.

💡

Did You Know?

It is one of the most frequently encountered butterflies in Central American cities, thriving alongside human habitation.