Orange-tip
by
Shop
Anthocharis cardamines
Common & widespread in Britain.
The Caterpillars are green with white sides.
The Larvae feeds on Lady's Smock or Cuckoo Flower.
The Males are a common sight in spring, flying along hedgerows and damp meadows in search of the more reclusive Female which lacks the orange and is often mistaken for other species of butterfly.
The undersides are mottled green and white and create a superb camouflage when settled on flowerheads such as cow parsley and garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata).
Flight period is April-June.