Wood White
Common NameWood White
Scientific NameLeptidea sinapis
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyDismorphiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatWoodland clearings, rides, edges, hedgerows, meadows, grasslands
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsLotus corniculatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Vicia cracca
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with a yellow lateral stripe. Pupae are green or brown, attached by a silk girdle, and overwinter.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other 'whites' by its more elongated forewings, weaker flight, and the absence of strong black veins or large spots on the forewings (apart from the apical spot). The underside of the hindwing often has a yellowish or greenish tint.
Description
A small, delicate white butterfly with elongated, pointed forewings and a characteristic weak, 'dancing' flight, often showing a small dark spot at the forewing tip.
