Small Tortoiseshell

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Aglais urticae

Small Tortoiseshell, a reference photo
Photo: Charlie Farrell · CC0 1.0 (licence)

The small tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) is a colourful Eurasian butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. Adults feed on nectar and may hibernate over winter; in warmer climates they may have two broods in a season. While the dorsal surface of the wings is vividly marked, the ventral surface is drab, providing camouflage. Eggs are laid on the common nettle, on which the larvae feed.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Is it venomous or poisonous?

We have no record of Small Tortoiseshell being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.

Easily confused with

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Lepidoptera
Family
Nymphalidae
Genus
Aglais
Species
Aglais urticae

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