Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1355511

West Virginia White
Pieris virginiensis

Observation date: May 11, 2023
Submitted by: rhedden
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Ten or more individuals were seen in this area in the foothills of the Taconic mountains. While Toothworts were present along the stream, garlic mustard has also invaded along the edges of the dirt road. Butterflies were seen nectaring and ovipositing on both.
Status: Resident
Verified by: jmgesell
Verified date: May 12, 2023
Coordinator notes: Nice find! As I’m sure you’re aware since you mentioned the plant, invasive Garlic Mustard has been detrimental to the species. Females confuse the plant as one of their hosts, ovipositing on them. The caterpillars unfortunately cannot survive using it as a host plant. -jmgesell
Checklist region(s): United States, New York, Rensselaer County