NESBReC

Here are a couple of Green-veined White butterflies on Garlic Mustard flowers, seen in Banchory by Aileen Salway. The green veins on the underside of the wings are the main identification feature for this butterfly. They are not present on the similar looking Small White and Large White butterflies. It is best to let any white butterfly settle on a plant and to get a good view or even photo before deciding which species of white it is. Garlic Mustard is coming into flower now, growing up to one metre in height and its leaves smell of garlic when crushed. This is one of the plants favoured by Green-veined White for laying its eggs. As always, let us know when and where you see any with good location details, including a grid reference if possible.