The marbled white is a distinctive, medium-sized, white butterfly, with black-chequered markings. Adults are on the wing in the summer, from June to August. Strong colonies can be found on warm, species-rich chalk and limestone grasslands, but woodland rides, railways cuttings and road verges are also frequented. The adults can often be seen feeding on purple flowers, such as field scabious, common knapweed and wild marjoram. The caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses, but red fescue is especially important.
How to identify
The marbled white sports a black-and-white checked pattern that is unmistakeable.
Did you know?
The marbled white is expanding its range north and eastwards, possibly as a result of warming due to climate change.
