The Green-veined White butterfly (Pieris napi) is a native species to the United Kingdom, distinguished by its creamy white wings adorned with intricate green veins. It is one of the most common butterflies in the UK, found in a variety of habitats including meadows, hedgerows, gardens, and woodland edges.

Green-veined White butterflies primarily feed on the nectar of various flowering plants such as dandelions, cuckooflowers, and garlic mustard. As caterpillars, they feed on plants from the mustard family, including wild cabbage and garlic mustard. Their adaptable feeding habits allow them to thrive in diverse environments.

In terms of behaviour, Green-veined White butterflies are known for their swift and erratic flight patterns, often darting between patches of sunlight to bask and refuel. They are also social creatures, gathering in groups during mating season and engaging in courtship displays.

The lifespan of a Green-veined White butterfly typically ranges from two to three weeks for adults, with multiple generations emerging throughout the year. Their lifecycle is closely tied to the availability of food plants and suitable breeding habitats.

Culturally, the Green-veined White butterfly has been featured in various artworks, literature, and folklore as a symbol of purity and renewal. Its delicate appearance and graceful flight have inspired poets and artists, symbolising the beauty and fragility of nature.

An interesting fact about the Green-veined White butterfly is its ability to produce a chemical defence against predators. As caterpillars, they sequester toxins from their host plants, making them unpalatable to predators such as birds. This adaptation contributes to their survival and abundance in the UK’s ecosystems.