With the UK experiencing warmer winters, the red admiral has become a more frequent sight, particularly in Hampshire. It’s not entirely clear whether these butterflies are local individuals that have chosen to stay behind instead of migrating, or whether they are from Europe and North Africa, now able to continue their life cycle in the milder UK climate.

Typically, red admirals arrive from continental Europe and North Africa. While the first migrants can reach the UK as early as January, the peak of their arrival occurs between April and June. However, as winter temperatures remain milder, it’s becoming more common to see these resilient butterflies actively flying through gardens and woodlands during the colder months.

Unlike most butterflies that hibernate in their pupal stage or disappear entirely, the red admiral also survives through a remarkable strategy: it can overwinter by entering into a dormant state in its adult form. This unique adaptation allows it to remain visible even in the coldest months. This period of rest allows the butterfly to conserve energy, waiting for warmer days when it can resume its activity.

Red admirals can be found in sheltered locations, particularly in gardens, woodlands, and areas with ivy or other evergreen plants. These butterflies seek out sunny spots, often on tree trunks, fences, or warm walls, where they bask to absorb heat from the sun. They are not particularly active in the chill of winter, but when a spell of warmer weather strikes, they become more visible, flying briefly to feed or search for mates. As the days grow colder they seek out crevices in tree barks, sheltered areas in buildings, or dense foliage where they can find some respite from the cold.

The red admiral serves as a reminder that even in the coldest months, nature finds a way to persist, offering a glimpse of beauty and resilience in the midst of winter’s chill.