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Aglais urticae, commonly known as the Small Tortoiseshell, is a beautiful butterfly belonging to the family Nymphalidae. It is widely distributed across Europe and temperate Asia, and is one of the most recognizable and cherished butterfly species in its range. Its vibrant colors and adaptability make it a common sight in gardens, meadows, and woodland edges, although its numbers have declined greatly over the last 50 years. The Small Tortoiseshell has a wingspan of around 4.5-6cm. Its wings are a striking combination of orange and black patches, with a series of blue spots lining the edges of the hindwings. The forewings feature bold black markings and patches of yellow near the base, creating a vivid and eye-catching appearance. The underside of the wings is mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage when the butterfly is at rest - particularly during the winter when it is dormant for many months.
This butterfly is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, hedgerows, grasslands, and woodland clearings. It is found throughout Europe and Asia, extending from the British Isles in the west to Japan in the east. In northern regions, it can also be seen in the Arctic Circle during the summer months - this high degree of adaptability has helped it remain widespread and common, even in urban areas. The Small Tortoiseshell is known for its energetic and territorial behavior. Adults are active from early spring to late autumn, often producing two to three generations per year depending on the regional climate. During this time, they can be seen basking, feeding on nectar, and engaging in territorial disputes. In the winter, this butterfly typically roosts in small groups in sheltered spots, which is when it often comes into contact with humans while trying to find refuge in sheds and garages.
The larvae feed exclusively on Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), which serves as their host plant. Female butterflies lay large clusters of 150-300 eggs on the undersides of young nettle leaves in sunny positions, and the caterpillars develop in communal silk nests before dispersing to feed independently in the final instar. The caterpillars are black with gold-yellow stripes and the exoskeleton is covered in spines, providing some protection from predators.
In late autumn, adults hibernate in sheltered locations such as tree hollows, sheds, or even attics. They emerge in early spring, often among the first butterflies to appear after winter, making them a harbinger of warmer weather. Aglais urticae is not considered endangered, but its populations can be influenced by factors such as habitat loss, agricultural intensification, and climate change. Providing suitable habitats with abundant nettles and nectar-rich flowers can help support local populations.
Difficulty - Very easy (1/10)
Host plants - Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica).
Temperature - Room temperature or outside.
Lifecycle - 2-3 broods annually with adult butterflies overwintering.
