Species Insects & ArthropodsClouded Sulphur

Clouded Sulphur

Colias philodice

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Clouded Sulphur (Colias philodice)

The Clouded Sulphur is a bright yellow butterfly with black-bordered wings and a small orange spot on each hindwing below. It hybridizes extensively with the Orange Sulphur where both species overlap, producing intermediate forms. It is among the most widespread and recognizable small butterflies in eastern North America.

Habitat
Open fields, roadsides, clover patches, and meadows
Diet
Larvae: clover, alfalfa, and vetches. Adults: nectar
How common
Common

Recent Clouded Sulphur sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Clouded Sulphur? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.

Get Huck — free

More insects & arthropods

13-Year Periodical Cicada
13-Year Periodical Cicada
Magicicada tredecim
Acmon Blue
Acmon Blue
Plebejus acmon
Acorn Ant
Acorn Ant
Temnothorax curvispinosus
Acorn Weevil
Acorn Weevil
Curculio glandium
Aerial Yellowjacket
Aerial Yellowjacket
Dolichovespula arenaria
Alderfly
Alderfly
Sialis lutaria
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Megachile rotundata
Ambush Bug
Ambush Bug
Phymata americana