Brimstone

Gonepteryx rhamni

Buíóg Ruibheach [IRL]

Le Citron [F]

Zitronenfalter [D]

$Distribution Map (dark areas indicate presence) and Flight Times of this species - \nNB See General Information page for accuracy information$

photo

Grassland, woodland edges.

Uncommon. Burren and midlands.

Alder buckthorn.

50-60mm (1.97 inches)
[Small Tortoiseshell 50mm]

This butterfly is not very common in Ireland. It is a very attractive light lemon or yellow butterfly that has a rather pointed wing shape.
It hibernates during the winter.
Some say that this butter coloured insect was responsible for the name 'butterfly'.