Large Map
Common NameLarge Map
Scientific NameAraschnia levana
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, orange
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, clearings, damp meadows, riverbanks
Geographic RangeEurope (excluding northern Scandinavia and southern Mediterranean), temperate Asia to Japan
Host Plantsstinging nettle
Flight PeriodApril to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe species is bivoltine or trivoltine, with distinct spring and summer forms. Larvae feed gregariously on stinging nettle, and the species overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsIdentify by the unique 'map-like' pattern of black lines on an orange-yellow background (spring form) or black wings with white bands (summer form). The underside often resembles a dry leaf.
Description
This butterfly exhibits striking seasonal dimorphism; the spring form, shown here, has a black and orange-yellow map-like pattern, while the summer form is predominantly black with white bands.
