Cryptic Wood White
Leptidea juvernicaThe Cryptic Wood White is a delicate butterfly that looks almost identical to the Wood White, so much so that it was only recognised as a separate species in 2001. With soft white upperwings and grey-green underwings, they have a gentle, drifting flight close to the ground. In the UK, they are found only in Northern Ireland, making location the easiest way to tell these twins apart.
A new entry to our lists, will this twin be the best?
At first glance, the Cryptic Wood White looks just like the Wood White, but it’s actually a secret twin! These two are so identical that it is almost impossible to tell them apart in the field. In fact, it was only identified as a separate species to the Wood White in 2001.
The major difference between the two is location! If you’re in central or southern England it’s the Wood White, and if you’re in Northern Ireland it’s their cryptic counterpart.
This delicate-looking butterfly has dusty white upperwings and greyish green underwings. And, their wings don’t only look delicate. This Cryptic Wood White often flies weakly and low, giving it a delicate, drifting appearance.
Despite its cryptic name and unlike its Wood White relative which likes woodland glades, it prefers open areas, fluttering gently over grassy areas with a slow, floating flight. You’ll find them in rough grassland, hedgerows and verges, but only in Northern Ireland in the UK.
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 Cryptic Wood 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.
The Cryptic Wood White was only recognised as a separate species in 2001.
Test your knowledge
How can you most easily tell a Cryptic Wood White from a Wood White?The two species look almost identical, so the easiest way to distinguish them is by location, with the Cryptic Wood White found in Northern Ireland.
Does the Cryptic Wood White get your vote?