Large Tortoiseshell polychloros Pupae

Large Tortoiseshell Nymphalis polychloros

One of Europe’s grand butterflies! Now believed to be extinct in Britain. 

The larvae feed on a variety of fruit trees, Willow, Sallow, Elms, Aspen, Poplars and Birches. Easy to rear, particularly when sleeved on growing foodplant, but protect from excessive rain. Butterflies are produced this year. They feed on nectar, sap and fruit, then hibernate until they breed in spring.

Could you help establish this extinct British species in your area?