Identification: Upper surface of male forewing white with black zigzag pattern on outer margin. Dry season female form resembles male with heavier black zigzag pattern and a small black spot in the wing cell. Wet-season female is darkened with black scales above and below. Wing Span: 2 1/2 - 3 3/8 inches (6.3 - 8.6 cm). Life History: Males patrol for females. Eggs are laid on the upper surface of host plant leaves in groups of about 20. Flight: All year in South Texas, peninsular Florida, and along the Gulf Coast. Caterpillar Hosts: Mustard family (Brassicaceae) plants including beach cabbage (Cakile maritima), cultivated cabbage and radish, peppergrass (Lepidium species); and plants in the caper family (Capparidaceae) including nasturtium. Adult Food: Nectar from many species of flowers including saltwort, lantana, and verbena. Habitat: Salt marshes, coastal dunes, open fields, and gardens. Range: Resident of south Atlantic and Gulf coasts south through tropical America. Migratory along the Southeastern coast. Strays to Maryland, Kansas, and Colorado.

Santa Catalina Mountains
Sabino Canyon.
Location: At base of dam.
12/19/21

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