Indian Tortoiseshell
Common NameIndian Tortoiseshell
Scientific NameAglais caschmirensis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatMountainous regions, open woodlands, clearings, meadows, gardens
Geographic RangeHimalayas (Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan), parts of China
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Urtica hyperborea
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on nettle host plants. Larvae are spiny, black with yellow stripes, and gregarious. Pupae are typically brown or green, suspended head-down, with adults emerging and often overwintering.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its specific pattern of black markings on the orange forewings and the row of blue spots along the dark, scalloped margin of both fore and hindwings. The underside is cryptically patterned brown.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange-brown wings marked with prominent black spots and patches, a dark brown basal area, and a dark, scalloped margin adorned with small blue spots.
