Euchloe ausonia

Photo Credits: Paolo Mazzei – www.leps.it

Distribution:It is widespread throughout southern Europe, North Africa and the Near East. In Italy it is uncommon and has been found on the hilly slopes of the interior.

Description: The wingspan is 40–45 mm.It is part of a set of very similar species distinct from specialists based on the morphology of the caterpillars.The wings on the upperside are dappled white and the green spots on the underside of the wings are very characteristic.It has a rapid and irregular flight and is not easy to approach even when it is placed.

Biology: In most of its range, there is only one generation. Adults are on wings from the beginning of March to the beginning of May. The larvae feed on the flowers and young fruits of Isatis tinctoria and Sinapis Arvensis.