Small White
Pieris rapae
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Small White is the 'cabbage white' of gardens — the butterfly whose caterpillars devastate brassicas. Despite its reputation as a pest, it's an important pollinator and part of the dune ecosystem. Smaller and less vigorous than Large White, it has one or two black spots on the forewing (one in males, two in females). Common throughout the Sefton Coast in multiple generations from April to October.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Pieridae |
| Habitat | Dune grassland · Garden · Scrub edge · Farmland |
| Diet | Adults: flowers. Larvae: Cabbages, Brassicas — the 'cabbage white' caterpillar. |
| UK population | Very common throughout Britain; one of the most abundant butterflies |
| Sefton Coast | Abundant throughout the Sefton Coast from April to October |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Dune grassland and scrub edges throughout the Sefton Coast. The most abundant white butterfly.
Identification
Small white butterfly. One (male) or two (female) black spots on forewing. Yellowish-green underside. Smaller and more delicate than Large White. Fast, direct flight.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Any white butterfly smaller than a 50p coin is likely Small White. Present everywhere in summer.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell Small White from Large White?
Size is the main feature — Small White is noticeably smaller with weaker flight. On Large White the black wingtip extends much further down the wing edge, and the black spots (on females) are larger and bolder. The underside of Small White is yellow-green; Large White underside is whiter. Small White also tends to fly lower and more erratically.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.