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Western White

Pontia occidentalis

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Western White (Pontia occidentalis)

The Western White is a medium-sized white butterfly with bold black-and-white checkered upper wings and a complex gray-green veined hindwing underside. It is common at higher elevations and in open western habitats. In summer males and females gather in large numbers at moist soil along stream margins and mountain roads for minerals.

Habitat
Open hillsides, mountain meadows, and disturbed areas of the West
Diet
Larvae: mustard family plants. Adults: nectar and minerals
How common
Common

Best time to see a Western White

The best time to see a Western White is July–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,937 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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