Aglais io (Caterpillar)

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

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

Risks & Benefits

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

Identified on: 5/23/2026