Common and widespread throughout Britain and Ireland.
A large strong flying butterfly. Brilliant white wings with black tips to forewings, extending down wing edge. Females also have two spots on forewings not present in males. Undersides are creamy white with two spots.
Size and Family
Family – Whites and yellows
Larged Sized
Wing Span Range (male to female) – 63-70mm
Conservation status
UK BAP statusNot listed
Butterfly Conservation priorityLow
European statusNot threatened
Caterpillar Foodplants
The larvae feed on wild or cultivated species of the Cruciferae family, with a strong preference for cultivated varieties of Brassica oleracea such as Cabbage and Brussel-sprouts and varieties of B. napus such as Oil-seed Rape. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) and Wild Mignonette (Reseda lutea) are also used, as is Sea-Kale (Crambe maritima) along the coast.
Distribution
Countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland
Widespread throughout Britain and Ireland
Distribution Trend Since 1970’s = Britain-7%
Habitat
A common butterfly found in a variety of habitats particularly gardens and allotments where cabbages are grown.
