www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

Hi everyone,

I picked up a small tortoiseshell off the side of the road with a broken wing.

She's been living in my house, going outside during the day but she can't fly.

I've been making up a solution of honey and water and soaking cotton pads with it. And bringing home flowers for her.

I've made her a little house in my dining room (which she never stays in).

She's very friendly - jumping on and off my hand - and enjoys sunbathing on the back door mat.

The only thing is I never see her eat. I tried lending a helping hand but it upset her so...

Any help would be gratefully received.

Hi Dawn,

If the butterfly is unable to fly then, alas, there is nothing that you can do for it. This is, I'm afraid, just a reality of the natural world.

I can only suggest that you release it within a nettle patch where it may be able to find a natural place in which to hibernate, get through the winter, and possibly lead out a useful life next spring (i.e. mate). However, I suspect the odds are against that happening, I'm afraid.

Cheers,

- Pete