Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) Butterfly resting on dead grass.

One of the most abundant European butterflies wherever there are flowers and a frequent visitor to ice-plant (Sedum) and Buddleia flowers. This species does migrate but not in high numbers. It overwinters as an adult butterfly and can be seen as early as March, flying until September or October in two or more generations. Found throughout Europe and temperate Asia to Japan from sea-level to 3,500 metres.

The caterpillar lives with others in a large web on nettles (Urtica). It is usually black above and greenish below, with several rows of black and yellow spines.

The chrysalis is formed under fence rails or in similar protected places. It is grey, with shiny, golden spots.

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