There are a lot of Cabbage White Butterflies (Pieris rapae) around recently.
These small butterflies have a wingspan of about 1¼ - 2 inches (32-47 mm).
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They seem particularly fond of the sunflower trees (Tithonia diversifolia) as do many other insects.
This species generally prefers field mustards (Descurainia pinnate) in Florida as we do not have much of its preferred food source available (cabbage, kale radish, broccoli, or horseradish).
It is also known to feed on other food crops like turnip greens (Brassica rapa) or any other member of the mustard family (Brassicaceae).
Considered a pest in most parts of the United States they are a delightful addition to the late summer garden when food crops are not at risk.
They first appeared in North America around 1860, making the crossing from the Europe as pupa in their host foods.
They emigrated to Hawaii by 1898 and Australia by 1929. They're obviously an evolutionary marvel, perfectly able to adapt to many different types of environments.
Above: A pair engaged in butterfly coitus. They look a lot like the Large White (Pieris brassiere) though the Large White is not often found in North America.
Above: A Cabbage White egg.
Above: The caterpillar of the Cabbage White.
We've Read and Watched:
Rio Controversies Spark New Twitter Hashtag
The Rio Olympics have been overshadowed by an avalanche of bad news, including a Zika outbreak that prompted 150 health officials to recommend moving the games, violent crime, polluted water, infrastructure failures and one of the worst recessions Brazil has seen in decades.
The non-stop negative coverage had Twitter users mocking the games on Saturday with a new trending hashtag: #OlympicProblemsIn5Words.
“Sensational 1600 Meter Sewage Swim,” wrote one twitter user.
Another user posted a picture of Donald Trump with the caption: “Practically everyone is a foreigner.”
“Drug tests are multiple choice,” joked another person, after more than 100 Russian athletes were barred for doping.
Check out some of the funnier tweets below:
AND THE FIRST OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL OF 2016 GOES TO. . .
TONGA's FLAG BEARER
and finally, Australia's fan favorite
Dave "Wolfman" Williams is not competing
in the shower competition, nor in rugby 7s
