Sardinia, May 2003

Ssp. ichnusa.

Sardinia, May 2003

Ssp. ichnusa.

Field notes and information

Endemic on Corsica and Sardinia. There is some debate about this being a full species, separate from the small tortoiseshell A. urticae.

Identification & Similar species: Differs from the small tortoiseshell A. urticae in the redcuation of the upperside hindwing dark basal area and it lacks the two discal spots on the upperside forewing. The effect is a much more orange butterfly.

Distribution & Flight: Confined to Corsica and Sardinia. It flies in spring and again in summer before entering hibernation as an adult.

Habitat & Behaviour: In my very limited experience it roams across open areas in the hills and mountains where the larval food plant, stinging nettle Urtica dioica can be found in patches.

Sardinia, May 2003

Ssp. ichnusa.