Scientific name: Leptidea sinapis One of the smallest and most
dainty of the white butterflies found in Britain. Rare in south
England and the Burren region of western Ireland. A small
butterfly with a slow flight, usually encountered in sheltered
situations such as woodland glades or scrub. Upperwings are
white with rounded edges. Males have a black mark on the edge of
forewing. Undersides white with indistinct grey markings. Males
fly almost continuously throughout the day in fine weather -
patrolling to find a mate. Females spend much of their time
feeding on flowers and resting. In the characteristic courtship
display the male lands opposite the female and waves his head
and antennae backwards and forwards with his proboscis extended.
The butterfly has a localised distribution in England and Wales
and has declined rapidly over the past few decades. Size and
Family - Medium Sized - Wing Span Range (male to female) - 42mm
- Listed as a Section 41 species of principal importance under
the NERC Act in England