Painted Lady, Cynthia cardui

Identification

Large; wingspan, 65mm to 70mm.

Both sexes are predominantly orange-brown with black and white patterning. On their upper surfaces the inner (basal) half of the forewings have a number of black angular blotches whilst the tips are black with a series of white spots and blotches. The hind wings have a series of rather obscure dark markings on their inner half and the outer half is patterned with a series of three concentric black markings, the innermost being a series of spots. Both sets of wings have white outer margins interrupted with black markings. The underside of the forewings has a complex pattern resembling a subdued version of the upper surface although the orange-brown of the latter are replaced by a pink colour. The underside of the hind wings is extremely complex with white, brown and grey pattern elements together with a series of dark eyes towards the margin of the wings. The patterning is such that it is almost impossible to detect the butterfly when it is at rest with wings closed on bare earth.

Behaviour and life history

The Painted Lady is a migrant species which regularly appears in this country but often in widely fluctuating numbers. The butterflies that appear in Plymouth have flown across from North Africa but cant breed in this country because they are unable to survive our winters. They are strong fliers and many seen in the City are migrants making their way northwards. Those that stay here seek out sunny sheltered spots where the males establish territories which are rigorously defended.

Where to look for it

The butterfly can turn up almost anywhere in the city where it is both sheltered and sunny and is a common visitor to gardens and parks. It is particularly attracted to the Butterfly-bush, Buddleja davidii, in late Summer. During migration it can sometimes be seen in large numbers at places like Jennycliff, the Hoe, Western King and Mount Wise as it flies in off the sea.

Distribution and status

Widespread throughout the city. In good migratory years it can be very common but, on the other hand, it can be a rarity in poor years.

When to look for it

Anytime between May and October with a minor peak in numbers in June but the major peak occurring later in August.

Similar species

A combination of its size and orange brown colour should make this butterfly unmistakeable. It is arguably the fastest flier of any of our local butterflies, which is also a good aid to its identification.

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