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Species Detail
Western White
Pontia occidentalis (Reakirt, 1866)
Attributes of Pontia occidentalisFamily: Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae) Subfamily: Whites (Pierinae) Identification: Upperside of forewing has marginal markings that are lighter than the submarginal stripe. Below, forewing tip and hindwing have veins outlined with gray-green. Short-day spring and fall forms have more prominent markings. Life history: Males patrol hilltops and ridges for receptive females. Females lay eggs singly on host plants. Caterpillars will feed on leaves but prefer buds, flowers, and fruits. Chrysalids hibernate. Flight: One flight from June-July in far north; two flights from May-August in the south. Wing span: 1 1/2 - 2 1/8 inches (3.8 - 5.3 cm). Caterpillar hosts: Flowers and fruits of various members of the mustard (Brassicaceae) family. Adult food: Flower nectar. Habitat: Mountain peaks, slopes, hilltops, railroad yards, open plains, roadsides. Range: Alaska south to central California, northern Arizona and northern New Mexico; east to North Dakota and central Ontario. Conservation: Not usually required. NatureServe Global Status: G5 - Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery. Management needs: None noted. | Documented Records for Pontia occidentalis
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