White Admiral

Limenitis camilla (59.0221)

The White Admiral is a stunning woodland butterfly. From a distance, the wings are black/dark brown with a band of white but on closer inspection, subtle patterns and colouration occur in the dark areas of the wing. The undersides are more colourful, sky blue near the body, with dark red/brown markings and a white band corresponding to the upper wing pattern.

The White Admiral has a distinctive and delicate flight pattern consisting of short periods of wing beats, followed by long glides often very near the ground. Care should be taken as a low-flying White Admiral may be mistaken for a Purple Emperor.

Adults are often observed feeding on Bramble flowers in woodland rides and clearings but may also be encountered on the ground feeding on moist, nutrient rich soils. They are sometimes seen feeding on bird droppings. It prefers shady areas, flying in dappled sunlight. The females lay their eggs on Honeysuckle.

Habitat Requirements

The White Admiral prefers shady woodland and woodland rides in mature woodland. Sunny glades with patches of Bramble and other flowers providing nectar are also required.

Larval Foodplants

The larvae of the White Admiral feed on Wild Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum).

Distribution in Warwickshire

See maps below. Distribution text required.

1995-2004

2005-2009

2010-2014

2015-2019