Is butterfly evidence of global warming?

7:32pm Sunday 25th February 2007

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AN out-of-season butterfly could be evidence of global warming, according to one resident.

Monika D'Agate, 38, spotted the insect, thought to be a Red Admiral, basking on her car last week, as she left the Leisure Centre, in Avenue Road, Erith.

Ms D'Agate, of Poplar Mount, Belvedere, said: "I had left the gym to find this fantastic butterfly sitting on my car.

"It was a bit lethargic and could not fly very far.

"I took it on to my hand and transferred the poor thing on to the fence."

The driving instructor added: "Is this global warming?

"Nowadays it is almost impossible to find these butterflies in cities, let alone in February."

Red Admirals have dark, black-brown wings, each with an orange-red band.

The forewing tips are black with white spots; the underside is orange, blue and white, while the hindwings are camouflaged dark brown.

The adults and caterpillars are usually spotted between May and October.

• Have you seen any out-of-season insects or animals?

Do you think this is evidence of global warming?

Let us know your thoughts.