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Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly
Appearance: Bright orange with black and yellow markings and blue spots along the edges.
Upper Wings: Bright orange with black, yellow, and blue markings.
Under Wings: Dark brown, almost black.
Differences between Males and Females: Both sexes are similar, but females are slightly larger.
When to See: March to October.
What They Eat: Adults feed on nectar from buddleia, thistles, and knapweed. Caterpillars eat nettles.
Migrant: Not a migrant.
Common in Selby Area: Yes, very common.
How to Help: Plant nettles and nectar-rich flowers.
Good Places to See: Gardens, parks, and meadows. Often seen basking on walls and fences.
Interesting Fact: Small Tortoiseshells are one of the most familiar butterflies in Britain and are known for their territorial behavior.
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