Small White

It has brilliant white wings, with small black tips to the forewings and one or two wing spots. The undersides are a creamy white.

The Large White is similar but larger, and has a larger spot in the tip of the forewing that extends down the wing's edge.

Size and Family

• Family: Whites and yellows
• Size: Medium
• Wing Span Range (male to female): 48mm

Conservation Status

• GB Red List (2022): Least Concern
• Butterfly Conservation priority: Low
• European status: Not threatened

Caterpillar Foodplants

Cultivated brassicas are used, especially cabbages, and Nasturtium (Tropaeoleum majus) in gardens. Wild crucifers, including Wild Cabbage (Brassica oleracea), Charlock (Sinapis arvensis). Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Hoary Cress (Lepidium draba) and Wild Mignonette (Reseda lutea) are used to a lesser extent.

Lifecycle

Habitat

This common butterfly is found in a variety of habitats, particularly gardens and allotments where cabbages are grown.

Distribution

• Countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland
• Widespread throughout Britain and Ireland
• Abundance trend: -22% (1976-2019)
• Distribution trend: -15% (1975-2019)