There are typically 2 or 3 generations each year, depending on the weather, with 4 generations in extremely good years. The first adults appear from mid-April or early May, depending on season, with the last adults seen in October and, very occasionally, early November, depending on location.
This butterfly favors open land where nectar sources and foodplant are found. Such habitats include grassland, wasteland, heathland, old quarries, embankments, road verges and woodland rides.
The lovely little butterfly is common and widespread across most of Europe, where its range extends down into North Africa; it is also seen in Asia and in North America.