Adult small tortoiseshells can be seen during much of the year, sometimes even on mild winter days. Unlike many butterflies, they survive the colder months as adults, seeking shelter in quiet, undisturbed places. Sheds, garages, attics and even unused corners of homes can provide the cool, dark conditions they need to rest until spring. When the weather begins to warm, they emerge and are often among the first butterflies people notice.

During spring and summer, these butterflies are regular visitors to nectar-rich flowers. They are especially fond of plants such as buddleia, brambles and other garden favourites.. They live in a wide variety of habitats, from farmland and woodland edges to coastal areas, towns and back gardens.

Their early life begins on a very different plant. Small tortoiseshell caterpillars rely on common nettles as their food source. Females lay clusters of eggs on young nettle leaves, and the caterpillars hatch and grow together, feeding on the plant. Leaving some nettles in a sunny corner of a garden or allotment can make a real difference to this species.

Males are known for their territorial behaviour, often chasing away other butterflies and insects that stray into their chosen patch. When they encounter a potential mate, they use a distinctive courtship behaviour, tapping gently with their antennae before pairing.

Although once one of our most widespread butterflies, numbers have fallen significantly in recent decades. By planting nectar-rich flowers and allowing a few nettles to grow, people can create safe spaces for small tortoiseshells to feed and breed.