Encounters with the Large Tortoiseshell

 Since the Large Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis polychloros) re-established itself as a British breeding species in 2019/2020, I have only had one photographic encounter, back in 2020, following a tip-off from a friend.

 During the intervening years, I have regularly searched likely habitats in my local area during spring and summer but without any sightings.

I have always been an advocate of paying close attention to woodland habitats in my local area, especially during late June and July, when some of my favourite species are on the wing.

While the 'butterfly circus' had moved west for the Purple Emperor season, I was destined to enjoy some wonderful moments with polychloros, during the last week of June.

Large Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis polychloros)

The week started well when I spotted a probable male on the trackside just ahead of me. I was so pleased that my wife was with me to enjoy her first view of this species.

A few days later, I was alone and spotted an orange butterfly basking in the bracken. I held my breath as I made my approach and was soon holding my camera over a fresh female.

About 45 minutes later, in the same area, I spotted what I assumed was the same female settled with her wings closed. I enjoyed several minutes photographing what turned out to be a different female.