Small Tortoiseshell
Image: Viola (Public domain)
Common NameSmall Tortoiseshell
Scientific NameAglais urticae
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsorange, black, yellow, blue
HabitatGardens, parks, meadows, woodlands, hedgerows, open country
Geographic RangeTemperate Eurasia, from Europe to Japan
Host PlantsCommon Nettle, Hop
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on nettle leaves. Larvae are spiny, black with yellow stripes, feeding communally. Pupae are typically green or brown, hanging head-down, with adults emerging and often overwintering.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive combination of orange, black, and yellow markings on the forewings, a row of blue spots on the hindwing margin, and a dark, jagged outer wing edge. The underside is cryptically dark brown.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright orange wings featuring black and yellow patches, a row of blue spots along the dark outer margin, and a jagged wing edge.
