fig. 1.)

The beginner often has a slight difficulty in finding a good and permanent
distinction between this species and the next (_V. Urticae_). At the first
blush, the superior size of this seems to be a sufficient mark, and then
the orange of the wings has usually a much browner, or more tawny hue, than
that of _Urticae_; but as I have seen specimens of _Polychloros absolutely
smaller_ than some very large _Urticae's_, and as the colour of both
occasionally varies, so that they approach each other in this respect also,
it is evident we must look for some better mark of distinction; and here
_is_ one. In _Polychloros_, _all_ the light markings between the black
spots on the upper edge of the front wing are _yellow_, whereas in
_Urticae_ the _outer one next the blue and black border is pure pearly_
WHITE. The two other marks on the front edge are yellow. _Polychloros_ has
also, near the _lower corner of the front wing, an extra black spot_, not
found in _Urticae_.

The blue spots on the border are in this species almost confined to the
hind wings. {124}

The _caterpillar_ generally feeds on the elm, whence the butterfly is
occasionally called the "Elm Butterfly," but it has also been found on the
willow, and on the white beam-tree. Mr. Boscher of Twickenham informs me
that the specimens he has bred from caterpillars fed on the _willow_ have
been all far below the average size. The caterpillar is thorny, and of a
tawny colour, broadly striped with black along each side.

The _chrysalis_ is of a dull flesh colour, with golden spots.

The _butterfly_ makes its appearance in July and August, _hybernated_
specimens being also frequently seen in the spring, from March till May.

In some places and seasons it is not rare, but is very uncertain in its
appearance, abounding most in the southern districts, and being almost
unknown in Scotland. It is fond of gardens and other frequented places.

* * * * *

THE SMALL TORTOISESHELL BUTTERFLY. (_Vanessa Urticae._)

(Plate IX. fig. 2.)

This pretty species is much commoner than the last, being, in fact, the
most plentiful of all the _genus_, and found everywhere, in gardens, by
weedy road-sides and waste grounds, &c.

Its markings are very similar to those of the last, but the colouring is
much more gay and brilliant. {125}

The distinguishing mark of this species--the possession of a pure _white_
spot near the upper corner of the front wi