Eastern Bath White (Pontia edusa)
Species

Taken near Novo Hodzhovo, Bulgaria, on July 23rd 2015.
(1/800th sec at f14. © David Hastings)

Taken at Bansko, Bulgaria, on July 26th 2015.
(1/500th sec at f14. © David Hastings)

Description

Family: Pieridae

Wing span: 35 - 45mm

This species is very similar to the Bath White, but is considered to be biologically distinct. Biochemical differences between the two species are thought to be sufficient to prevent interbreeding.

It is found in NW France, eastern France, central and south-east Europe, Iraq, Iran and central and east Asia.

Favoured habitata are hot, dry, often barren stony places. It is common on disturbed ground where the LHP grows.

This species is polyvoltine, with adults being on the wing between March and October according to locality.

Larvae feed on plants in the Resedaceae family, principally White Mignonette (Reseda alba). It will also use crucifers.

A very fast flier with nomadic tendencies.

Sightings

26-Jul-2015 : Bansko, Bulgaria
23-Jul-2015 : nr Novo Hodzhovo, Bulgaria
21-Jul-2015 : Rupite Hot Springs, Bulgaria

25-Jun-2014 : Rupite Hot Springs, Bulgaria
25-Jun-2014 : General Todorov, Bulgaria
20-Jun-2014 : nr Dolna Kula, Bulgaria