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Clouded yellow

Clouded yellow

Colias croceus

A species of Clouded yellows, Also known as Eurasian clouded yellow

Characterized by vibrant wings that exhibit a brilliant orange-yellow hue, clouded yellow displays sexual dimorphism with males tending to be more vivid and females showing varied patterns of spots. Adapted for migration, this species is known for its remarkable multi-generational journeys covering considerable distances, reflecting a deep-seated resilience and capacity for survival across various climates.

General Info About Clouded yellow
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Attributes of Clouded yellow
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
These butterflies may live in any open area in the countryside, including downland, coastal cliffs and fields containing the caterpillar's host plants, at an elevation up to 1,600 metres (5,200 ft) above sea level.
Adult Food Sources
Thistle, buddleia, lavender, ivy, heather
Larva Food Source
Fabaceae family plants, trifolium (clover), medicago (alfalfa), lotus corniculatus (birdsfoot trefoil), vicia (vetch)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Clouded yellow is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Clouded yellow is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Clouded yellow feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Clouded yellow
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Clouded yellow
North Africa, southern Europe, Turkey, Middle East
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Life Cycle of Clouded yellow
Egg The clouded yellow begins as an egg, typically laid on a host plant. The eggs are small and may vary in color, but often have a protective coating to prevent desiccation.
Larva Upon hatching, the clouded yellow enters the larval stage. This caterpillar is characterized by a voracious appetite, growing rapidly, and molting several times as it outgrows its skin. Its primary focus is to accumulate energy for the next stages of development.
Pupal The clouded yellow then forms a pupa, a case where it undergoes a remarkable transformation. The shape is distinctly different and immobile, often camouflaged, and the organism inside is reforming its body structure extensively during this stage.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult clouded yellow’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Clouded yellow Larvae
Birds, rodents, predatory beetles, spiders, parasitic wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Clouded yellow
Birds, spiders, mantises, rodents, lizards, frogs
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Interesting Facts About Clouded yellow
The clouded yellow has a unique thermoregulation method, angling its wings to precisely control body temperature during flight.
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Scientific Classification of Clouded yellow
Tips for Finding Clouded yellow
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Youth Habitat of Clouded yellow
Grasslands and Prairies, Meadows, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Clouded yellow
Grasslands and Prairies, Meadows, Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Clouded yellow
Adult clouded yellow are attracted to various flowering plants for nectar. Common trap foods can include brightly colored flowers like asters, zinnia, and buddleia. For caterpillars, host plants specific to clouded yellow larvae should be provided, such as various species of the Fabaceae family.
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Habitat Preferences of Clouded yellow Through Different Life Stages
To find the different stages of clouded yellow, one would initiate the search by looking for its eggs on the underside of host plant leaves, which are typically legumes. The caterpillars, or larvae, are commonly found feeding on these host plants, often in meadows with abundant flower growth. As they develop into chrysalides, they’re usually located closer to the ground, camouflaged among plant debris or directly on stems. Adult clouded yellow, known for their fluttery flight, can generally be seen sipping nectar in open, sunny areas rich in wildflowers. They are common in a variety of habitats including roadsides, fields, and gardens, especially during warm weather when flowers are abundant.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Clouded yellow
The ideal time to find adult clouded yellow is on warm, sunny days, typically from late spring to early fall, when they are most active. For larvae, the best time might be during their active growth periods in the host plants' growing season.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Clouded yellow
Clouded yellow adults prefer warm and sunny weather with little to no wind for flying and feeding purposes. Therefore, such conditions are also ideal for humans trying to find clouded yellow. Caterpillars may be active in more varied conditions but are more likely to be found when it is not too hot nor too cold and when the weather is relatively stable.
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How and Where Can You Find Clouded yellow at Different Life Stages
Egg Clouded yellow eggs can be identified as tiny, pale yellow to off-white, and can be found attached to the leaves of host plants. To find them, inspect the undersides of leaves of known host plants in the region.
Larva Caterpillars of clouded yellow are found on or near their host plants, usually on the undersides of leaves to avoid predators. Look for signs of feeding such as holes or jagged edges on leaves.
Pupal As clouded yellow matures, its chrysalis can be found attached to host plants or nearby structures. To find them, search around the base of host plants or look for them hanging from stems or leaves.
Adult Adult clouded yellow can often be spotted feeding on nectar from flowers, basking in the sun on leaves or the ground, or flying in areas where host plants and food sources are abundant. Sightings are more common in open, sunny habitats.
Are Clouded yellow harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Clouded yellow
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Fabaceae
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Clouded yellow is a known pollinator primarily attracted to flowers by their bright colors and sweet fragrances. While feeding on nectar, they may inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, facilitating plant reproduction. Some of these insects have a particular affinity for Asteraceae and Fabaceae plants.
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