Orange Sulphur
Colias eurytheme
Photo by Chris F. from Pexels
Summary
The orange sulphur (AKA alfalfa butterfly) looks very similar to its relative the clouded sulphur, but as the name suggests, with a more orange coloration.
Host plants for the larvae are legumes such as alfalfa and clovers, and these caterpillars feed mainly at night to avoid predation. Adults nectar at a wide variety of flowers, and can often be seen gathering in moist areas; newly emerged males, in particular, are especially attracted to wet ground, where they sip the salts and minerals thought to improve the odds of successful mating.
More Details
FAMILY
Pieridae (Whites and Sulphurs)
IDENTIFICATION
Average wingspan 1.5-2.5 inches. Yellow-orange; dorsal side with black borders. Ventral hindwing with two unequal circles at end of discal cell.
HABITAT
Open areas, fields, pastures and gardens.
LIFE CYCLE
Four to five broods. Egg is spindle-shaped; white when laid; turns orange/red. Chrysalis is green with yellow and black dashes - the overwintering stage.
HOST PLANTS
Legumes, especially clovers.
Ecosystem Connections
The caterpillars are herbivores that graze on vegetation, and adults serve a role in pollination. All life stages provide food for predators. Additionally, because butterflies are so sensitive to toxins and disturbance, they are good indicators of the overall health of ecosystems.