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

Best time to see a Clouded Sulphur

The best time to see a Clouded Sulphur is July–September, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 11,619 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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