Yellow-legged Tortoiseshell reaches Rutland

Yellow-legged Tortoiseshell, Rutland

During the past week or so there has been an unprecedented influx of Yellow-legged (or Scarce) Tortoiseshells on the east coast of England. Congratulations to Chris Gardiner who photographed this one in a private garden in Belmesthorpe yesterday – a first for Rutland.

Others may follow, so if you find a ‘large tortoiseshell’ look for white (not yellow) markings near the apex of the forewing, a diffuse dark border on the hindwing, and pale legs. Scroll down to compare a Large Tortoiseshell which I photographed recently in Normandy.

If you are lucky enough to discover one, please try to take some photographs so that records can be confirmed.

• Yellow-legged Tortoiseshell