Canary red admiral facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Canary red admiral |
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The Canary red admiral (scientific name: Vanessa vulcania) is a beautiful butterfly. It belongs to the Nymphalidae family, which includes many well-known butterflies.
You can find this butterfly on the Canary Islands and Madeira. It lives on most of the Canary Islands, but not on Lanzarote. For a long time, scientists thought it was a type of another butterfly, Vanessa indica. But in 1992, after more research, it was officially recognized as its own unique species.
What Does It Look Like?
The Canary red admiral is a medium-sized butterfly. Its wingspan is usually between 54 and 60 millimeters. That's about 2 to 2.4 inches wide.
This butterfly is generally darker in color than its close relatives. It has a bright red band on its front wings. This band has a wavy shape. The hind wings have large spots near the edges. The tip of its front wing is also more pointed than some other similar butterflies.
Where Does It Live?
The Canary red admiral is native to the islands of the Atlantic Ocean. These include the Canary Islands and Madeira. These islands have a special climate that helps this butterfly thrive.
What Do Caterpillars Eat?
Like all butterflies, the Canary red admiral starts its life as a larva (caterpillar). These caterpillars have specific plants they like to eat. They feed on plants from the nettle family. Their favorite foods are Urtica morifolia and Urtica urens. These plants provide the energy and nutrients the caterpillars need to grow.
See also
In Spanish: Vanesa índica canaria para niños
