A small strong-flying butterfly, common and widespread throughout Britain and Ireland.
Brilliant white wings with small black tips to forewings and one or two wing spots. Undersides creamy white. Large White is similar but larger and has larger spot in tip of forewing that extends down wing edge.
Size and Family
Family – Whites and yellows
Medium Sized
Wing Span Range (male to female) - 48mm
Conservation status
UK BAP statusNot listed
Butterfly Conservation priorityLow
European statusNot threatened
Caterpillar Foodplants
Cultivated brassicas are used, especially cabbages, and Nasturtium (Tropaeoleum majus) in gardens. Wild crucifers, including Wild Cabbage (Brassica oleracea), Charlock (Sinapis arvensis). Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Hoary Cress (Lepidium draba) and Wild Mignonette (Reseda lutea) are used to a lesser extent.
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.
