It is migratory along the south-eastern coast of the United States, with strays to Maryland, Kansas, and Colorado.

Adults are on wing all year round in southern Texas, peninsular Florida and along the Gulf Coast.

This species seeks out appropriate plant hosts for oviposition by detection of compounds called glucosinolates present in the family Brassicaceae.

Since they have a high growth rate and a non-regulated body temperature, herbivorous insects require a higher quantity of protein.

Chemical characteristics of the plant that affect the development of the larvae include the: nitrogen content, carbohydrates and water content, as well as physical characteristics such as: hardness, size, form, texture, temporal and spatial distribution and abundance.

Intraspecific competition between larvae generally doesn't occur between the 1st and 2nd instars because they do not consume a lot.

Damage to the plant is caused by the larvae that, upon hatching, feed on the leaves for almost the entirety of their developmental cycle.

[citation needed] Another method that is being explored is the use of host plant resistance, which is safer and more sustainable.