Common-garden-species
Guides
Aglais urticae
Small Tortoiseshell
Aglais urticae, commonly known as the Small Tortoiseshell, is a widespread Eurasian butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is one of the most familiar butterflies across Europe, recognized by its distinctive orange and black wing pattern with blue marginal spots. The species is strongly associated with nettle patches, which serve as the primary larval foodplant. Adults are frequently observed in gardens, meadows, and woodland edges, and are known for their territorial behavior and extended hibernation as adults.