The pure white forewings, delicately marked with brown, wavy cross-lines, and silky appearance, combined with its small size are characteristic of this species. Very easily disturbed by day. Flies just before dusk and after dark.

Size and Family

  • Family – Carpets and Allies (Larentiines)
  • Small Sized 

Conservation status

  • UK BAP: Not listed
  • Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

Hazel, Hornbeam, birches and Wild Rose.

Habitat

Frequents broad-leaved woodland, particularly ancient woodland, possibly preferring more shady situations.

Distribution

  • Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
  • Widely distributed over England, Wales, becoming scarcer and more westerly in mainland Scotland north to Caithness. Thinly distributed in northern and western parts of Ireland. Rare on the Channel Islands.
 
Small White Wave - Patrick Clement

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Garry Barlow

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Heath McDonald

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Ilia Ustyantsev

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Ben Sale

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Ben Sale

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Ben Sale

Small White Wave

Small White Wave by Dave Green

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Koen Thonissen

Small White Wave

Small White Wave - Koen Thonissen

Small White Wave