Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae)
Although in the region where I live the Small Tortoiseshell is not much seen, it is one of the most common garden butterflies in Europe. The major larval foodplant is Stinging Nettle and other Nettle species. The Small Tortoiseshell is very mobile and is found wherever there are flowers. He flies from May till October in one, two or three broods and can be seen very early if the weather is warm as he hibernates as adult butterfly.
For photos of the other stages please link to my 'regular' page about the Small Tortoiseshell (Butterfly Gallery -> Nymphalidae).
For photos of the other stages please link to my 'regular' page about the Small Tortoiseshell (Butterfly Gallery -> Nymphalidae).
Sequence 1: Transformation (emerging) from chrysalis into butterfly (metamorphosis)
Sequence 2: Transformation (emering) from chrysalis into butterfly (metamorphosis)
Sequence 3: Transformation (emering) from chrysalis into butterfly (metamorphosis)
Sequence 4: Transformation (emering) from chrysalis into butterfly (metamorphosis)
Sequence 5: Transformation (emering) from chrysalis into butterfly (metamorphosis)