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Male and female are almost identical. The female (on the right) is supposedly "less ragged in outline" but they are very difficult to tell apart in isolation
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A "half-and-half" composite does show the difference, but it's quite subtle
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The underwing usually appears very dark, but clearly shows the distinctive "comma" which gives the species its name
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The addition of a bit of "fill-in flash" shows that the underwing is actually beautifully marbled with unexpected peacock-like "eyes"
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Mating pair, well hidden in a bush! The female, with her plainer underwing pattern, is probably to the left
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The eggs are laid on nettles, and 2 to 3 weeks later the caterpillar emerges
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The young caterpillar lives on the underside of the leaf, but when fully grown it rests on the upperside, gaining protection from its resemblance to a bird-dropping (a rather prickly one!)
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The caterpillar turns into a chrysalis after about 7 weeks, concealed among withered leaves. Note the strange "eye-like" markings on its outer surface instead of the comma
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The adult emerges after 2 weeks, ready to begin the cycle all over again.
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