Red Admiral

Natural Habitat

Widely distributed across moist woodlands, fields, gardens, and urban areas in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Diet & Feeding

Adults primarily feed on fermenting fruit, tree sap, and bird droppings, but will also visit flowers for nectar. Larvae feed on plants in the nettle family (Urticaceae).

Behavior Patterns

Known for a fast, erratic flight pattern. Males are territorial and sit on sunlit foliage or ground to watch for females. They are migratory in many parts of their range, moving north in the spring.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans. Provides ecological benefits as a pollinator and serves as a food source for birds and predatory insects. Generally considered a welcome and beautiful addition to gardens.

Identified on: 6/5/2026