The Great Southern White, Ascia monuste, is found primarily in coastal habitats. Look for them at beaches, in salt marshes, and along roadsides.
These beautiful white butterflies have a wingspan of 1 .75 to 2 .25. Males have a black zig-zag pattern on their outer forewing.
These common butterflies produce multiple generations each year. Great Southern Whites use plants in the mustard family as larval hosts. These include pepper grass, saltwort, limber caper, and sea rocket.
Photo Credit: Andy Waldo
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park