Large Tortoiseshell Nymphalis polychloros

This butterfly's name perfectly describes its wings: they look like tortoiseshell, with intricate brown, orange, and black patterns that create stunning camouflage when the wings are folded. It's one of the larger tortoiseshell species, giving it impressive presence in flight.

These butterflies emerge early in spring, making them one of the first signs that winter is truly breaking. They're also known for gathering in groups to drink from damp soil—a behavior called puddling—creating small congregations of some of the season's most beautiful insects.