The Small Tortoiseshell is one of our most common and most recognizable diurnal butterflies from the Nymphalidae family. It is recognized by its vibrant orange-red wings with black spots and a characteristic border of tiny light-blue crescents adorning the outer edge of the wings. The underside of the wings is dark and marbled, providing the butterfly with excellent protective camouflage when it rests with closed wings.
Its habitat is extremely diverse, as it can be encountered everywhere from lowlands to high mountains. It is an excellent flier and one of the first species observed in spring, since adult specimens overwinter in the shelter of caves, cellars, or attics. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from numerous flowering plants, while the caterpillars are nutritionally bound exclusively to nettles, where they weave a safe shelter from threads in groups.
In Slovenia, it is widespread, and hikers often encounter it on flowering mountain meadows or sunny rocky paths until late autumn. Due to its adaptability and striking colors, the Small Tortoiseshell is an indispensable part of the mountain fauna, which with its presence enlivens many a sunny ascent.
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