The red admiral (Vanessa atalanta) is a common migratory butterfly found in marshy north temperate regions of Asia, Europe and North America. It's a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 1.8–2.0 inches (4–5 cm). Its wings are identified by their striking dark brown, red, and black wing pattern. The dark wings feature orange bands that cross the fore wings and on the outer edge of the hind wings; white spots on the dorsal forewings near the front margin; reddish bars on dorsal surface of all four wings. The red admiral butterfly is a fast flier. Its caterpillar lives by feeding only on nettles. The adult drinks from flowering plants like the Buddleia and overripe fruit. The red admiral is from the family of Nymphalidae.