The Painted Lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui) is a migratory species found across the United Kingdom, known for its distinctive orange and black wings adorned with white spots. It is one of the most widespread butterflies globally and can be seen in various habitats throughout the UK, including gardens, parks, meadows, and coastal areas.

Painted Lady butterflies primarily feed on the nectar of various flowering plants such as thistles, buddleia, and daisies. As caterpillars, they feed on a wide range of host plants, including thistles, mallows, and nettles. Their adaptable feeding habits contribute to their success in diverse environments.

In terms of behaviour, Painted Lady butterflies are known for their strong migratory instincts, with populations migrating northwards from North Africa and southern Europe during the summer months. They can travel thousands of miles, making them one of the longest migratory butterflies in the world.

The lifespan of a Painted Lady butterfly typically ranges from two to four weeks for adults, with multiple generations emerging throughout the summer months. Their lifecycle is closely tied to the availability of food plants and suitable breeding habitats.

Culturally, the Painted Lady butterfly has been celebrated in various artworks, literature, and folklore as a symbol of beauty and transformation. Its migratory behaviour and striking appearance have inspired poets, artists, and storytellers throughout history.

An interesting fact about the Painted Lady butterfly is its ability to undergo mass migrations known as ‘painted lady years,’ where millions of individuals can be seen flying northwards across continents. These mass migrations occur irregularly and are influenced by weather patterns and food availability.