Species Account for Gonepteryx rhamni
Gonepteryx rhamni (Linnaeus, 1758)
Brimstone
Lepidoptera: butterflies: Pieridae
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Taxonomic group: butterflies (Lepidoptera: butterflies) - County data
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Brimstone on UK Butterflies website
Species text
The Brimstone is single-brooded, spending up to 11 months in the adult state, in which it hibernates; the only resident Pieridae not to hibernate in the pupal state. Males emerge early, sometimes in late February and will travel long distances in search of a mate. Purging Buckthorn (Rhamnus catharticus) is the more prevalent larval foodplant in the chalkier north-west of the county, whereas Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is used at the gravel heathlands and woods, where found. The most abundant site is Danbury Common, particularly the Backwarden nature reserve. At Mill Green Common, larvae have been found on Alder Buckthorn standing in full sun and in shade. References
Habitats
Recorded management for locations with Gonepteryx rhamni
Recorded substrate and hydrology for locations with Gonepteryx rhamni
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