The small tortoiseshell typically produces two to three generations per year depending on the regional climate. In most of Central Europe, there are typically two generations per year. The first emerges in June/July, and the second in late August. The small tortoiseshell overwinters as an adult.
Attention! The adult butterflies can be seen at any time of the year, even on the last days of December or first days of January if the temperature is high enough to wake them from hibernation.