A common species with successful strategy of survival |
The Little Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) is a member of the aristocrat family. It is a common butterfly in central Europe and occurs throughout the year. It is one of the few species that hibernate in the form of a butterfly. Most species get through the cold period as a caterpillar or as a chrysalis. When the autumn days become colder, the Little Tortoiseshell searches for a hide. Often you can find it in the loft, where it sits quietly, wings folded, on a rafter. As soon as it gets warmer in spring, it will flutter against the roof window trying to escape its shelter. As for example the Peacock or the Brimstone, the Little Tortoiseshell can be seen very early in spring. This is because these species after the winter do not have to turn into a chrysalis and hatch, but can just fly off. So they belong to the first ones to appear. |
