Aglais io (Caterpillar)

Meadows, gardens, and woodlands; usually found on stinging nettles or host plants like hops and sunflowers

The caterpillars feed primarily on stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), as well as occasional other plants like hops or sunflowers

Caterpillars are gregarious and live in a communal silk nest during early stages of development before dispersing as they mature to pupate

Benefits the ecosystem as a primary pollinator when it matures into a Peacock butterfly; can be a minor garden nuisance but generally not considered a major pest