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Checkered White
Pontia protodice

Copyright by: Mary Keim

Description:
Medium sized butterfly measuring up to 2 1/2" in length. The upperside of the male has a black checkered pattern. The female is more heavily patterned, but the markings are more brown and diffuse. The hindwing is white. The underside of the male has a pale checkered pattern. The underside of the female has yellow-tan markings. The caterpillar is gray with yellowish-orange stripes and small black dots.
Range:
North America
Habitat(s):
Weedlots, roadsides, and cultivated fields.
Reproduction:
Yellow eggs are laid on leaves and flowers of host plants.
Natural History:
Adults born during cooler parts of the year tend to be smaller and darker in color.
Food:
Caterpillars feed on leaves, flowers, buds, and fruits of host plants. Larval host plants include the native poor-man's-pepper (Lepidium virginicum) and species in the mustard family such as cabbage (Brassica oleracea). Nectar host plants include the nonnative alfalfa (Medicago sativa).
Comments:
Garden abundance is low. For more information, visit Butterflies and Moths of North America.

Copyright by: Mary Keim

Copyright by: Mary Keim



 
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