Lesser Gull
Common NameLesser Gull
Scientific NameCepora nadina
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, white
HabitatForests, forest edges, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsCapparis zeylanica, Capparis spinosa, Capparis moonii
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, peaking during monsoon
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid singly on host plants, larvae are green with yellow stripes, pupae are green and angular, leading to the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright yellow coloration, the broad white band on the forewing, and the distinct dark lines along the veins on the underside of the hindwings. Males are typically brighter yellow with less extensive dark markings than females.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright yellow wings, featuring a prominent broad white band across the forewing and darker venation visible, especially on the hindwing.
