Red Tip
Common NameRed Tip
Scientific NameAnthocharis cardamines
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, orange, black
HabitatMeadows, hedgerows, woodland edges, gardens, riverbanks
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsCuckoo Flower (Cardamine pratensis), Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species has a single brood per year. Eggs are laid on the flower stalks of cruciferous host plants, and the green larvae feed on the seed pods. Pupae overwinter, often camouflaged on stems.
Identification TipsMales are unmistakable due to their bright orange forewing tips and a prominent black discal spot. Females are white with black forewing tips and a black discal spot, and can be distinguished from other whites by the mottled green and white underside of their hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly white wings. Males feature striking bright orange tips on their forewings, a distinct black discal spot, and a dark bar across the forewing.
