A delicate species inhabiting grassy areas, it is beautifully marked and despite its name, is a Brown (Satyridae) rather than a White (Pieridae). It is by far the commonest and most widespread of several closely related species across Europe. It was one of the commonest species when I visited the Pyrenees and the Alps, as well as when I visited several dry grassy areas in southern England.

Distribution: South and central Europe; although absent from Ireland, the Baltic countries, Fennoscandia, Denmark, most Mediterranean islands, much of Iberia and northern Britain.

Flight Period: June-August in 1 brood, peaking in July.

Habitat: Dry grassland, woodland edges and clearings,  flowery meadows and scrub. Fond of calcareous areas with knapweed in southern England.

Foodplants: A wide variety of grasses (Poaceae).

Nectar Sources: Predominantly knapweeds (Centaurea) and thistles (Cirsium, Carduus), but also scabiouses (Knautia), brambles (Rubus), clovers (Trifolium), vetches (Viccia) and Marjoram (Origanum majorana).

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