Small White

Pieris_rapae

National Status

Common, widespread and stable. Population trend 10 years +9%; since 1976 -25%. Numbers fluctuate from year to year reinforced by migrants from continental Europe.

West Midlands Status

West Midlands Status: Common throughout. Range stable.  Population trend 10 years – slight increase.

Habitat

Most areas but particularly where foodplant present.

Flight Period

Two broods with an occasional third. A few individuals may appear in late March but the first brood starts mid-late April with the second brood in July.

Hotspots

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Crucifers (various) (Cruciferae family (various)) and Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus). Charlock (Sinapis arvensis), Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale), Hoary Cress (Lepidium draba), Wild Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and Wild Mignonette (Reseda lutea) are also used.

Life Cycle

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Egg
Larva
Pupa
Adult

Distribution 2023