Map Butterfly
Common NameMap Butterfly
Scientific NameAraschnia levana
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, black, white, brown
HabitatForest clearings, edges of woods, damp meadows, river banks, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope (excluding northern Scandinavia and southern Mediterranean), temperate Asia to Korea and Japan
Host PlantsUrtica dioica (stinging nettle)
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in stacks on the underside of stinging nettle leaves. Larvae are spiny, dark, and feed gregariously. Pupae are green or brown, resembling a dead leaf, and hang upside down, with the last generation overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the dramatic seasonal dimorphism (orange-brown spring form vs. black and white summer form) and the unique reticulated, map-like pattern on the underside of the hindwings, which is present in both forms.
Description
This butterfly exhibits striking seasonal dimorphism, with a predominantly orange-brown and black spotted spring form and a largely black with a prominent white band summer form. Both forms feature a distinctive map-like pattern on the underside of the hindwings.
