Black-veined White
Image: Maria Sibylla Merian (Public domain)
Common NameBlack-veined White
Scientific NameAporia crataegi
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, orchards, hedgerows, forest edges
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, North Africa
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, apple, pear, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on host plant leaves, hatching into gregarious, hairy caterpillars that overwinter in a communal silk web. They pupate as a chrysalis attached to vegetation.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the pure white wings with very distinct, thick black venation, and the absence of significant black markings at the wing tips, differentiating it from other white butterflies.
Description
This medium-sized butterfly has pure white wings prominently outlined by strong black veins, and a dark, hairy body. It is easily recognized by this striking venation pattern.
