Orange-tip
Image: Cyclejakob (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Common NameOrange-tip
Scientific NameAnthocharis cardamines
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorswhite, orange, black
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, flower-rich verges
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host PlantsCuckooflower (*Cardamine pratensis*)
Flight PeriodApril to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in May on cuckooflower. Caterpillars hatch in June-July, feeding on flower buds and seed pods, camouflaged to resemble them. They pupate and overwinter, emerging as adults the following spring.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their white wings with prominent orange tips. Females have white wings with dark tips and a characteristic mottled green and white pattern on the underside of their hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized white butterfly. Males have distinctive bright orange tips on their forewings, while females have dark grey or black tips. Its underside is mottled green, providing camouflage.
