Small White
Pieris rapaeThe Small White is one of the UK’s most common butterflies, found across gardens, fields, hedgerows and roadsides, though it is scarce in the far north of Scotland. Similar to the Large White but smaller, they are often called ‘Cabbage Whites’ because their caterpillars feed on cabbages and other brassicas. Strong fliers, they can travel long distances and are joined in the UK by migrants from continental Europe. Males provide nutrient gifts during mating that help extend the females' lifespans.
The smaller of the cabbage eaters
A very common sight across the whole of the UK – apart from the very north of Scotland – the Small White flutters through gardens and fields, along roadsides and hedgerows, its pale white wings making it easy to spot.
They are very similar to the Large White, but smaller and with less extensive black tips to their wings. They even share the nickname ‘Cabbage White’ due to their caterpillars’ taste for cabbages and other brassicas.
Their caterpillars are often seen munching in groups, but be warned – not all Small White caterpillars are what they seem. Some may have been hijacked by a parasitoid wasp’s larvae, which will take the caterpillar’s nourishment and protection before eating their way out.
In happier times, during mating, the male gifts nutrients to the female which help to extend her life.
Small Whites aren’t picky when it comes to nectar flowers, enjoying daisies to dandelions, and, as a strong flier, will travel long distances for a feast. Our home-bred population is even sometimes topped up by in-bound flyers all the way from central Europe.
Vibes
Each butterfly is scored out of 100 across a set of traits, from how bold and visible it is to how far it travels or how particular it is about where it lives. These scores compare each species with the other butterflies in Britain, helping you see their differences at a glance. Here’s what makes the Small White special.
Bright colours, bold patterns, and a love of the spotlight. Some butterflies just can’t help showing off.
Fast, or throwing some seriously impressive moves, these butterflies are in a flutter.
Always on guard, ready to hide or defend - these butterflies have self-preservation down to an art.
It’s ok to be a little… well, weird. These butterflies have been certified with the freak factor.
Like Goldilocks, everything has to be just right for these perfectionists.
Hard to spot and even harder to forget, these butterflies are a true one of a kind.
Bold, curious, and ready to explore, these brave butterflies live for the thrill and aren’t afraid to travel.
Weather-resistant, battle-hardened, and built to survive, these butterflies know how to take it on the wing.
Chosen By
We’ve all got our favourite butterflies but for me, nothing makes me smile more than a cabbage white.
While the Peacock is exotic, and the Red Admiral is very recognisable, it’s the simple cabbage white I love.
Being in my garden is my favourite place to be, and if I spot a pair dancing around, looking like they are having such a good time, it always makes me happy.
Small White males give females nutrient gifts during mating, which help extend the females' lifespans.
Test your knowledge
Why are Small Whites sometimes called 'Cabbage Whites'?Small White caterpillars feed on cabbage and other brassica plants, giving rise to the nickname 'Cabbage White'.
Does the Small White get your vote?