Small tortoiseshell  (Aglais urticae)

The small tortoiseshell is one of the most widespread and familiar butterflies in Britain (2). Its beautiful patterning, comprising of black patches, areas of bright yellowish-orange and a fringe of blue spots around both the hind and forewings, makes this species instantly recognisable. The sexes are similar in appearance (1). The caterpillar, which reaches 22 mm in length, has a black head, a largely black body with tiny white spots, and black or yellowish spines on the back and sides. Along each side there are two broken yellow bands, below which the body becomes more purplish-brown in colour (3).