A widespread butterfly, commonly seen in gardens, but not doing so well in recent years, for reasons we do not know.
Where to see
- Habitat: This is a mobile butterfly, so it can be found in many places, including gardens.
- Caterpillar foodplants: Stinging nettles.
- Best places: Widespread while on the wing, including gardens. May be found in houses and sheds over winter, as it hibernates as an adult butterfly.
Distribution map
Small Tortoiseshell was recorded from these 1km squares in Dorset (2015-19).
- Key:
- 1 record
- 2-9 records
- 10+ records
When to see
Will emerge from hibernation in March or April and breed, with the new adults emerging to benefit from the summer weather. These then breed to produce the adults which will over-winter.
Sightings by month (last 5 years)*
This year and last*
What to look for
A butterfly you cannot mix up with any other, except for the Large Tortoiseshell, which is very rare and mainly on Portland.
Males and females are similar.
There is a huge difference between the very colourful upperwings, and the dull underwings which give it very good camouflage.
Photo gallery
Click thumbnails to view full-size images.
Two Small Tortoiseshells on a buddleia flower spike
Small Tortoiseshell, slightly worn. Photo: George McCabe
Small Tortoiseshell - just about recognisable, but very near the end of its life. Photo: Robin George.
Two Small Tortoiseshells on a buddleia flower. Photo: Lyn Pullen
Small Tortoise shell. Note how well camouflaged this female is: she is laying eggs on nettle leaves. Photo: Andrew Cooper.
Peacock (top) and SMALL TORTOISESHELL together, giving an idea of comparative size
LARGE TORTOISESHELL. This is a larger, duller butterfly, lacking the white spots near the tip of the forewings. Photo: Ken Dolbear
Small Tortoiseshell eggs. Photo: Dave Law
Small Tortoiseshell caterpillars (Aglais urticae) on nettle. Photo: Dom Greves