Spring White
(Pontia sisymbrii)
Whites
Appearance: Forewing above shows prominent outwardly notched black cell end bar at the end of a large white cell along the leading edge, and black or gray checkered pattern along trailing edge. The hindwing above is white with black veining. Below hindwing shows heavy gray scaling along yellow veins with a postmedian whitish interruption of the veining.
Wingspan: Small; 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 inches.
Habitat: Dry canyons, rocky outcrops, open coniferous forests; plains, foothills, montane.
Flight times: April to mid-June; one brood. Chrysalis overwinters.
Larval Foodplant: Plants in the mustard family.
Did You Know…
The name refers to its early flight, weeks before other butterflies (except for Cabbage Whites) emerge. Some feel the black scales might assist in absorbing warmth on cool spring days. (Angel, 2005)
