Black-veined White Butterfly

June 5, 2023

The black-veined white butterfly, thought to be extinct in Britain for nearly a century, has recently made an unexpected appearance in the countryside on the edge of London.

The Extinction and Surprising Resurgence

Almost a century ago, the black-veined white butterfly became officially extinct in Britain. However, in recent times, small numbers of these butterflies have been spotted fluttering in fields and hedgerows in south-east London.

Distinctive Characteristics

The black-veined white butterfly is a medium-sized white butterfly with unique black vein markings on its wings. It closely resembles the common cabbage white butterflies found in Britain during the summer months, making it easy for non-experts to mistake them for the more common species.

Habitats and Conservation Efforts

These rare butterflies favor habitats with hawthorn and blackthorn trees, where they were once commonly found. However, their recent sightings on the outskirts of London have puzzled experts, as they were believed to have disappeared from the region long ago.

The Speculations of Experts

According to experts, it is likely that the black-veined white butterflies were intentionally released. However, the reasons behind these releases and the responsible parties remain unknown. It is also highlighted that these sightings are unlikely to indicate the spontaneous recovery of an extinct species.

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