Map butterfly
Common NameMap butterfly
Scientific NameAraschnia levana
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsblack, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, clearings, riverbanks, damp meadows
Geographic RangeEurope (excluding northern Scandinavia and southern Mediterranean), temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsUrtica dioica (stinging nettle)
Flight PeriodApril to June (spring form), July to August (summer form)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in stacks on the underside of stinging nettle leaves. Larvae are spiny and black with yellow stripes. The species exhibits seasonal dimorphism, with the spring generation (f. levana) having a distinct black and white pattern, and the summer generation (f. prorsa) being predominantly black with a faint white band and some orange markings.
Identification TipsLook for the distinct black and white pattern with the prominent white band on the hindwings, characteristic of the spring form. The angular wing shape and its association with nettle-rich habitats are also key indicators.
Description
This butterfly, shown in its spring form, features dark brown to black wings with numerous white spots on the forewings and a prominent, irregular white band across the hindwings.
