This distinctive butterfly has unusual leaf-shaped wings, providing excellent camouflage whilst it overwinters among Holly or Ivy. The male possesses bright yellow wings, whereas the female has paler wings with a greenish tinge. It is quite local in Ireland compared to Britain  (where it is widespread and fairly common), its distribution reflecting that of its foodplants. Like the adult, the larva and pupa can blend into their surroundings perfectly. It is the commonest of several closely-related species and its combination of wing-shape and colour help to separate it from its relatives.

Distribution: Most of Europe, but absent from much of Scotland, northern Scandinavia and several Mediterranean islands.

Flight Period: June-October then March-May after hibernation, which occurs during the adult stage.

Habitat: Woodland rides, bushy scrub, mature gardens; most lightly wooded areas.

Foodplant: Various Buckthorn (Rhamnus) species.

Nectar Sources: Buddleia, scabiouses (Scabiosa), knapweeds (Centaurea), dandelions (Taraxacum), Viper’s Bugloss (Echium vulgare) and others.

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