Map butterfly (Araschnia levana)

🦋 Map Butterfly (Araschnia levana)

The Map Butterfly, scientifically known as Araschnia levana, is a fascinating species native to Europe and parts of Asia, well known for its striking seasonal dimorphism—it has two generations per year that look entirely different, resembling two separate species!

🔍 Identification

🧬 Seasonal Forms:

• Spring form (f. levana):
  • Color: Orange-brown with black spots and markings
  • Pattern: Resembles a small fritillary butterfly
• Summer form (f. prorsa):
  • Color: Mostly black with white bands across the wings
  • Appearance: Mimics a white-banded moth or the white admiral
• Wingspan: 35–40 mm
• Underside of hindwings: Map-like pattern of fine white lines on a brown background, giving the butterfly its name

🌍 Distribution & Habitat

• Range: Found throughout central and eastern Europe, into parts of Russia and Asia
• Habitat:
  • Woodland edges
  • Meadows
  • Forest clearings
  • Hedgerows and gardens with nettles

🐛 Life Cycle

• Generations: Bivoltine (two broods per year)
  • Spring generation (March–May): orange-brown form
  • Summer generation (June–August): black-and-white form
• Eggs: Laid in clusters on the underside of stinging nettles (Urtica dioica)
• Caterpillars: Spiny and black with orange markings
• Pupation: Chrysalis attaches to stems or leaves

🍽️ Diet

• Caterpillar host plant: Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)
• Adult nectar sources: Feeds on a variety of flowers, tree sap, and sometimes dung or carrion

🌟 Interesting Facts

• The map-like pattern on the underside of the hindwings gives the species its name
• One of the best-known examples of seasonal polyphenism—a change in appearance depending on the time of year
• The change between spring and summer forms is triggered by day length and temperature during larval development

✅ Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Not currently assessed globally, but considered common and stable in much of its range

📌 Summary

The Map Butterfly (Araschnia levana) is a small yet remarkable butterfly whose two seasonal forms showcase nature’s adaptability and elegance. With its map-like wing patterns and fascinating life cycle, it’s a favorite among butterfly watchers and a vivid example of how environment shapes biology.

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