The Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly (Aglais urticae) is of the family Nymphalidae which is in the genus Aglais.
It has a widespread distribution in the Palearctic region but is absent
from southern Asia. The caterpillars (larvae) feed on Common Nettle (Urtica dioica).
Overwintering as an adult, its cryptic under wing pattern helps to
avoid detection. It emerges from hibernation in late spring to lay eggs
on its larval plant.
Patrick J. O'Keeffe / Raw Birds
Patrick J. O'Keeffe / Raw Birds