Common Gull
Common NameCommon Gull
Scientific NameCepora nerissa
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, black, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrub, gardens, forest edges, plains
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, China)
Host PlantsCapparis spinosa, Capparis zeylanica, Cadaba fruticosa
Flight PeriodAll year (multiple broods in tropical regions)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and feed on the leaves. Pupae are green or brown, often with a pointed head.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black apical patch on the forewing with a white spot, and the dark veins on the yellow wings, especially on the underside. Often seen puddling in groups.
Description
A medium-sized yellow butterfly with prominent black markings on the forewing apex, including a white patch, and dark venation on the hindwings. The underside is typically paler yellow with similar vein markings.
