Vanessa cardui, commonly known as the Painted Lady, is a butterfly species belonging to the family Nymphalidae. This species is one of the most widespread butterflies in the world and can be found on every continent except Antarctica and South America. In the Comunidad Valenciana, it is known locally as the Vanessa de los Cardos.

The Painted Lady is renowned for its striking appearance, with a wingspan ranging from 5 to 8 centimeters. The upper side of the wings is covered with intricate patterns of orange and black markings, with patches of white on the forewings. The underwings are more cryptic, with brown and gray tones that provide camouflage when the butterfly is at rest.

Key characteristics of Vanessa cardui include:

• Coloration: The vivid orange and black wing patterns make it easy to identify this butterfly.
• Habitat: This species is highly adaptable and can inhabit a variety of environments, including gardens, meadows, and open fields.
• Migratory Behavior: The Painted Lady is known for its extensive migration, traveling thousands of kilometers from North Africa to Europe during the spring.

The Painted Lady undergoes several life stages, including egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly. It primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. The caterpillars feed on a wide range of host plants, including thistles, which contribute to its local name.

The vibrant patterns and ecological adaptability of Vanessa cardui make it a fascinating subject for both amateur and professional lepidopterists and an attractive species for visitors exploring the natural beauty of the Comunidad Valenciana.