Small White Butterfly
Image: various (Public domain)
Common NameSmall White Butterfly
Scientific NamePieris rapae
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatGardens, meadows, agricultural fields, urban areas
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa, North America (introduced), Australia (introduced), New Zealand (introduced)
Host Plantscabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard, nasturtium
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are green caterpillars that feed on brassicas. Pupation occurs as a chrysalis, often on the host plant or nearby structures.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its white wings with a small black tip on the forewing, and typically one black spot on the forewing for males, and two for females. Underside is yellowish-white with faint dark dusting.
Description
A small, common white butterfly with rounded wings, featuring one or two distinct black spots on the forewings and a black tip, depicted here in an artistic engraving.
