| Description: | This species and its larger cousin, the Large White, are often referred to as Cabbage Whites, though the Small White causes less damage to crops. There is a black tip to each wing plus one or two black dots. The underside is often more creamy white. Second brood adults have noticeably darker markings that those of the first brood. |
| Habitat: | This species is found in a wide variety of habitats and can turn up almost anywhere, including gardens, allotments, parks, meadows, open grassland, and hedgerows. |
| When to see it: | April to September. |
| Life history: | First-brood adults typically emerge in late April, peaking around the middle of May and gradually tailing off through June. The second brood, which is always stronger than the first brood, starts to emerge in early July. However, in good years, the second brood may emerge in late June and give rise to a third brood. The main larval food plants are crucifers and nasturtium. |
| Status: |
This is one of the most widespread species found in the British Isles and can be found almost everywhere. It is relatively scarce in northern Scotland but has been seen as far north as the Orkneys and Shetlands. This species is also known to migrate to the British Isles from the continent, sometimes flying in great swarms, augmenting the resident population in the process. Courtesy of Naturespot - www.naturespot.org.uk |
