The white butterflies seen fluttering across gardens and fields worldwide are most often the Cabbage White, or $Pieris\ rapae$, a species that has achieved near-global distribution. This insect, which originated in Eurasia, is now the most ubiquitous butterfly in North America and a common sight across Europe. While the total lifespan of a white butterfly is measured across four distinct developmental stages, the adult flying period is comparatively short.
Identifying the Most Common White Butterflies
The term “white butterfly” generally refers to the highly successful and widespread Cabbage White ($Pieris\ rapae$), known in Europe as the Small White. This butterfly is recognizable by its creamy-white wings, which feature small black tips on the forewings. Females also possess two black spots, while males typically have one.
While other species like the Checkered White ($Pontia\ protodice$) or the Large White ($Pieris\ brassicae$) also exist, $P.\ rapae$ is the species most commonly encountered. It thrives in open spaces, including cities, suburbs, and agricultural areas.
Lifecycle Duration Across the Four Stages
The complete duration of the Cabbage White’s lifecycle, from egg to adult death, generally spans between three to six weeks during the warm season. This total lifespan is an accumulation of four different stages, beginning with the egg phase, which is the shortest part of the cycle. A female deposits tiny, yellowish, upright eggs, usually one at a time, on the underside of host plant leaves. These eggs typically hatch into the larval stage within three to eight days, depending largely on ambient temperature.
The second stage is the larva, commonly known as the imported cabbageworm, which is the growth and feeding phase. This caterpillar stage lasts approximately two to four weeks (14 to 28 days). During this time, the larva rapidly consumes foliage from host plants in the mustard family, such as cabbage and broccoli. The caterpillar molts five times as it grows, storing the energy needed for its transformation before transitioning into the next stage.
Following the larval stage, the insect enters the pupa or chrysalis phase, which acts as a period of metamorphosis. The pupa is attached to a surface by a silk pad and lasts between seven to eighteen days in warm conditions before the adult butterfly emerges. If the pupation occurs late in the year, this stage may extend for several months as the insect enters diapause to overwinter.
The final stage is the adult butterfly. The adult flying life of the Cabbage White is surprisingly brief, lasting for a maximum of about three weeks (21 days) with proper nutrition. During this short time, the adult focuses entirely on mating and the female on laying up to 400 eggs to start the next generation.
Environmental Factors Affecting Longevity
The actual duration of each lifecycle stage is sensitive to external conditions, meaning the three-week adult lifespan is a potential maximum rather than a guarantee. Temperature is a primary determinant of development speed, with optimal growth occurring when temperatures are consistently between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Colder temperatures slow development and can trigger the overwintering state of diapause in the chrysalis, suspending the life cycle until spring.
The availability and quality of food also directly impact the butterfly’s ability to reach its maximum lifespan. Larvae require adequate host plants to gain enough mass for successful metamorphosis. Adults must find sufficient nectar sources to fuel their flight and reproductive efforts. Predation from birds, spiders, and parasitic wasps, along with diseases, often prevents the butterfly from completing its full potential three-week adult lifespan.