Small Tortoiseshell

National Status

Widespread over most of the UK, range stable. Population trend 10 years +146%; since 1976 -73%.

West Midlands Status

Found almost everywhere, range stable. Population trend 10 years – increasing despite large decline in cold summer of 2012.

Habitat

Found in many habitats including gardens, farmland and other more open areas.

Flight Period

Usually two broods with peak numbers in mid-April, the beginning of July and the end of August.

Hotspots

Nectaring in gardens in late autumn.

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Common Nettle (Urtica dioica) and Small Nettle (Urtica urens).