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Hecla sulphur

Colias hecla

A species of Clouded yellows

Colias hecla, the northern clouded yellow or hecla sulphur, is a butterfly in the family Pieridae. In Europe, it is found in the northern part of Norway, Sweden and Finland up to heights of 900 m. It is also found in Greenland, Alaska, the Northwest Territories, Yukon, Quebec, Labrador, Manitoba, the Chukot region, eastern Chukotka, and the Russian Far East. The wingspan is 36–46 mm. The butterfly flies in June to August depending on the location. The larvae feed on Astragalus species, including Astragalus frigidus and Astragalus alpinus as well as Trifolium repens. They are also known to feed on Salix arctica where Astragalus are absent.

General Info About Hecla sulphur
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Attributes of Hecla sulphur
Adult Food Sources
Thistle, goldenrod, aster, milkweed, purple coneflower
Larva Food Source
Leguminous plants, clover, vetch, alfalfa, liquorice
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
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Species Status of Hecla sulphur
Widespread
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Predators of Hecla sulphur Larvae
Birds, rodents, spiders, parasitic wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Hecla sulphur
Birds, spiders, reptiles, rodents, larger insects, bats
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Interesting Facts About Hecla sulphur
Hecla sulphur can remain active in cold temperatures where most insects would be immobilized, thanks to a natural antifreeze in their blood.
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Scientific Classification of Hecla sulphur
Tips for Finding Hecla sulphur
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How Can You Attract Hecla sulphur
Since hecla sulphur is a butterfly, adults are attracted to nectar-rich flowers. Therefore, a variety of blooming plants would serve as a natural lure. For caterpillars, the host plant species specific to hecla sulphur should be identified and used to attract them, as this is where they are likely to feed and be found.
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Habitat Preferences of Hecla sulphur Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of hecla sulphur typically resides on host plants, often legumes, in areas ranging from Arctic tundra to alpine meadows. During the larval stage, hecla sulphur can be found feeding on the leaves of these specific plants. When searching for the pupae, look on the lower stems or soil debris near its host plants. Finally, the adult hecla sulphur frequents sunny areas where flowers are abundant, as they are essential for nectar. To locate the various stages, one should systematically search the appropriate host plants and surrounding vegetation, keeping an eye on both the ground and plant surfaces.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Hecla sulphur
Adult hecla sulphur are typically active during daytime when it is sunny and warm, as butterflies are thermally dependent on external heat sources for flight. The best time to find larvae or caterpillars would be during their active feeding periods, which can vary but often corresponds with the availability of host plants and favorable weather conditions.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Hecla sulphur
Warm, calm, and sunny weather is conducive for finding adult hecla sulphur, as it allows them to be active, fly, and feed on nectar. Wet or windy conditions would be less favorable. For finding eggs or larvae, mild and moist conditions might be preferable to ensure the availability of fresh, tender foliage for feeding.
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How and Where Can You Find Hecla sulphur at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of hecla sulphur are typically laid on or near the host plants. Search for tiny, often spherical or ovular eggs on the under-sides of leaves, particularly on the host plant species known to be favored by hecla sulphur.
Larva Caterpillars of hecla sulphur can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding such as holes in leaves, frass (caterpillar droppings), and partially eaten foliage. Inspect both sides of the leaves and the stems for camouflaged larvae.
Pupal Pupae of hecla sulphur are often attached to the host plants or concealed in the nearby debris. Search around the base of host plants and in lower branches or stems for chrysalides which may be camouflaged as part of the plant or ground cover.
Adult The adult hecla sulphur can be found around nectar sources such as wildflowers. Visit areas with abundant flowering plants, meadows, or edges of woodlands on sunny days when butterflies are most active. They can also be attracted by colorful butterfly feeders or dishes with ripe fruits.
Are Hecla sulphur harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Hecla sulphur
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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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Hecla sulphur is an avid visitor of flowering plants, with a particular fondness for Asteraceae and Fabaceae. Its attraction to flowers is influenced by their vivid colors and distinctive shapes. This pollinator collects pollen as a food source for its offspring, showcasing the intricate relationship between flora and fauna.
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