Small Tortoiseshell
Aglais urticae
An orange, black, and cream butterfly of gardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, and flowery meadows across much of temperate Eurasia. Adults drink nectar from flowers such as thistles, buddleia, and bramble, while females seek stinging nettles for egg-laying. Their agile, erratic flight helps them escape birds and defend sunny territories. Unusually for many butterflies, adults can overwinter in sheds, hollow trees, and other sheltered places.
- Type
- Wing
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- ?
- Small Tortoiseshell Chrysalis
- Small Tortoiseshell