PL. XCIX
The species ranges from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from Alaska to the northern boundaries of the Gulf States. Expanse 1.50-2.00 inches.
(4) Pieris rapæ (Linnæus), [Plate XCIX], Fig. 1, ♂; Fig. 2, ♀ (The Cabbage Butterfly). (See [p. 174.])
This excessively common insect has been in comparatively recent years introduced from Europe. It first appeared about Quebec in 1860; since then it has come to occupy the continent, and wherever cabbages are grown hundreds of these butterflies may be seen. The loss to gardeners which it causes is estimated to run into millions of dollars annually. It feeds on all the Cruciferæ. The multiplication of P. rapæ has been followed by the partial extinction of our native Pierids just as our birds have disappeared before the English Sparrow. Expanse 2.00 inches.
Genus NATHALIS Boisduval
PL. C
Small yellow butterflies margined with black. Fore wings somewhat narrow and produced; antennæ quite short; upper radial vein in fore wing wanting. There are three species found in the subtropical regions of the New World, one of which invades our territory.
(1) Nathalis iole, Boisduval [Plate C], Fig. 1, ♂; Fig. 2, ♀ (The Dwarf Yellow).
This little species, of which we give excellent figures, cannot be mistaken. Expanse 1.00-1.25 inch.