European Peacock (Inachis io)

The European Peacock , more commonly known simply as the Peacock butterfly, is a colourful butterfly, found in Europe and temperate Asia as far east as Japan. Classified as the only member of the genus ''Inachis'' . It should not be confused or classified with the "American peacocks" in the genus ''Anartia''; these are not close relatives of the Eurasian species. The Peacock butterfly is resident in much of its range, often wintering in buildings or trees. It therefore often appears quite early in spring. The Peacock butterfly has figured in research where the role of eye-spots as anti-predator mechanism has been investigated.

In the British Isles, the butterfly is found in England, Scotland , Wales, and Ireland. The Peacock is expanding its range. The butterfly is not known to be threatened.