Graphic via Wikimedia
Butterflies of Scotland
- Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni)
Although the Brimstone has been seen in the Scottish Borders, it is mainly to be found in England and Wales. The Brimstone appears in early spring after hibernating through the winter but can be seen throughout the summer, through to November. The wings provide camouflage as they look very much like leaves. The male Brimstone has yellow-green underwings and yellow upperwings while females have pale yellow-green wings. Despite Brimstone relating to the colour of sulphur, it has been suggested that the term "Butterfly" was first applied to the butter yellow Brimstone and eventually became applied to all species. The Brimstone, feeds on buckthorn and alder buckthorn. When they stop to feed, they always keep their wings shut.
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Clouded Yellow.
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