The cabbage white, as it is sometimes known, is a common butterfly in our area and can be seen almost everywhere, though unusually for a butterfly we regard as home grown, the summer population of the butterfly is substantially migrant, coming from the near continent. The smaller male butterfly can be confused with the female small white and female brimstone, though closer inspection will reveal the difference in markings. I have seen this butterfly from late April onwards and it is present in Bromley, Orpington, along the downland ridge between Eynsford and Otford, and almost everywhere else- suburban or country.

Habit: the floppy flight of the female is easy to spot and it will settle with folded or outspread wings - the strong eyespots tempting birds away from the vulnerable body.

Seen to fly in parks, gardens, allotments, rough pastures and suitably uncultivated road and railway embankments.

Breeding: double or even triple brooded: overwinters as a very distinct pale spotted pupa, which can be found harnessed on walls and fences in suitably sheltered places.

Larval Foodplant: Crucifers (cabbage, brussels) and nasturtiums also wild mignonette.

Status: not under threat in our area - numbers fluctuating year by year.

WH - White Hill Shoreham, BC - Bromley Common, Ha Hayes --BN Bromley North - Ey Eynsford - Orp Orpington