Aglais urticae - small tortoiseshell

Aglais urticae - small tortoiseshell

The Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) is a butterfly from the family Nymphalidae and belongs to the subfamily Nymphalinae. Here is some information about this butterfly species:

Features and appearance :
The small tortoiseshell has a wingspan of about 4 to 5 centimeters. The upper sides of the wings are orange-brown and have black spots and white spots. The undersides of the wings have striking, pale spots and stripes. The caterpillars are black with dense, long, spiny hairs and often have yellow side stripes.

Habitat and distribution:
The small tortoiseshell is widespread in Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. It inhabits a wide range of habitats, including gardens, meadows, fields and forest edges.

Lifestyle and diet:
The adult butterflies feed mainly on the nectar of various flowers. The caterpillars of the small tortoiseshell butterfly feed mainly on stinging nettles (Urtica), which is why it is given the scientific name Aglais urticae.

Behavior and life cycle:
The small tortoiseshell butterfly goes through a complete metamorphosis cycle that includes egg, caterpillar, pupa and adult butterfly. The adult butterflies can have several generations per year, especially in warmer climates.

Protection status and significance:
The Small Tortoiseshell is a common butterfly species due to its widespread distribution and adaptability. Nevertheless, butterflies like the Small Tortoiseshell play an important role in the ecosystem, particularly as pollinators of plants.