Brimstone
Image: Huhu Uet (CC BY 3.0)
Common NameBrimstone
Scientific NameGonepteryx rhamni
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsyellow, green
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, meadows, forest edges
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsbuckthorn, alder buckthorn
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an adult butterfly, making it one of the longest-lived butterflies. Eggs are laid singly on the leaves of buckthorn or alder buckthorn, developing into green, camouflaged caterpillars.
Identification TipsLook for its unique wing shape with pointed forewings and the bright lemon-yellow (male) or greenish-white (female) coloration. The single dark spot on each wing is also characteristic.
Description
A large, vibrant yellow-green butterfly with distinctively pointed forewings and angled hindwings, featuring a single dark spot on each hindwing. This is an artistic depiction on a utility box.
