Field guide · Denmark
Whites and yellows · Denmark

Orange tip

Anthocharis cardamines

Orange tip is common in Denmark. Wing span: 37-47 mm. Orange tip flies from late April to late June. The species is associated with, in particular, wild composites and is mainly observed where these grow, i.e., forest edges, moist meadows, etc.

Status in this countryCommon in DenmarkLC (Least concern)
Orange tip

Flight period

Orange tip flies from late April to late June. In warmer years, the first individuals may appear as early as early April.

Habitat

The species is associated with wild members of the Brassicaceae family and is particularly observed where these plants grow, such as woodland edges, moist meadows, and similar habitats.

Identifying features

Wingspan: 37-47 mm. Orange tip is a true spring butterfly, particularly abundant in May.

Similar species

Imago: The female can be confused with the cabbage butterflies. The female can easily be confused with cabbage butterflies, especially the rare Eastern Bath White.

Distribution

Orange tip is widespread throughout the country, except in a belt along the Jutland west coast.

Biology

The orange-tip has one generation. The eggs are laid mainly on crucifers such as cuckooflower, garlic mustard, hairy rock-cress and other plants in the family.