European Peacock (Aglais io)
A colorful butterfly with uniquely colored large eyelike circles. This butterfly is of European origin established in the Montreal area recently. It appears early in the spring.
Identification and Similar Species
The size and color of the large circles on the back of the animal, imitating eyes of a larger animal, are unique in shape and color.
Photographic Field Records – Québec
Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings
During spring almost everywhere around Montreal. I saw my first individual in Park Pointe aux Prairies.
Fact Sheet
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | European Peacock |
| 🇫🇷 | Paon-du-jour |
| 🇩🇪 | Tagpfauenauge |
| 🇲🇽 | Pavo real |
Taxonomy
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 4-5cm |
| Wingspan | 6-8cm |
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2024-12-19