VERY EARLY Large Tortoiseshell EMERGENCE: I have been given permission to reveal a very early emergence of an adult Large Tortoiseshell - "somewhere in Sussex". Historically, the emergence of this species was in July and August. Last year there was a very early record on 13/06/2025 and this year, even earlier on 07/06/2026. Large Tortoiseshells usually enter hibernation within 1-2 weeks of emergence and therefore for each individual there is a very limited window to observe and admire it. This doesn't mean that we might not see some adults in a few weeks time but when you are out and about, it's a species you need to keep in mind.