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Pale clouded yellow

Pale clouded yellow

Colias hyale

A species of Clouded yellows

Adorning open meadows, pale clouded yellow displays a vibrant palette that shift with sunlight, its wings a canvas reflecting hues from lemon-yellow to creamy white. Specialized cells on its wings manipulate light to protect against temperature extremes and evade predators. As caterpillars, they feed on leguminous plants, while adults prefer nectar-rich flowers, contributing to pollination. Seasonal changes dictate not only their coloring but also their migration patterns, showcasing nature's nuanced adaptation at play.

General Info About Pale clouded yellow
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Attributes of Pale clouded yellow
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
The species lives in flower meadows up to 2,000 metres above sea level.
Adult Food Sources
Asteraceae (daisy family flowers), fabaceae (legume family flowers), lamiaceae (mint family flowers), ranunculaceae (buttercup family flowers), brassicaceae (cabbage family flowers)
Larva Food Source
Trifolium spp. (clovers), lotus corniculatus (bird's-foot trefoil), vicia spp. (vetches), medicago spp. (alfalfas), onobrychis spp. (sainfoins)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Pale 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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Distribution Area of Pale clouded yellow
It is common throughout the Palaearctic Region. Recorded from Ireland only once, in 1868; in England it is found only in the south.
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Predators of Adult Pale clouded yellow
Birds, rodents, spiders, wasps, mantis
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Interesting Facts About Pale clouded yellow
During cold periods, pale clouded yellow can produce its own antifreeze compounds, allowing survival at sub-zero temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Pale clouded yellow
Tips for Finding Pale clouded yellow
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Youth Habitat of Pale clouded yellow
Grasslands and Prairies, Meadows, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Pale clouded yellow Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of pale clouded yellow are typically laid on the undersides of host plant leaves. As caterpillars, they are found on or near their food plants, where they feed and develop. As they transform into pupae, they tend to be attached to the stems or leaves of the plants. To find the adult pale clouded yellow, searching in meadows, fields, and open areas where they can feed on nectar from various flowers would be ideal, especially during warm, sunny weather when they are most active.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pale clouded yellow
The best time to find adult pale clouded yellow would be during warmer months when they are active during the day, especially during sunny weather. For larvae and pupae, it would depend on their life cycle, which can be observed shortly after the adult butterflies lay their eggs.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pale clouded yellow
Sunny and warm weather with little to no wind is the most suitable condition for finding adult pale clouded yellow, as they are more likely to be active for feeding and mating. Larvae can be found in a variety of weather conditions but prefer milder temperatures and moist environments for sustenance.
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How and Where Can You Find Pale clouded yellow at Different Life Stages
Egg Pale clouded yellow eggs are typically located on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the host plants carefully, using a magnifying glass if necessary.
Larva Pale clouded yellow larvae, or caterpillars, feed on the host plants they were born on. Look for signs of feeding, like holes in leaves, and check for caterpillars on or near these plants.
Pupal Pale clouded yellow chrysalises can be found attached to sturdy substrates near host plants. Search on the stems, leaves, or even the ground for the well-camouflaged pupae.
Adult Adult pale clouded yellow are most active during sunny and warm parts of the day. Look for them in open fields, meadows, or gardens where they can feed on nectar from flowers or bask in sunlight.
Are Pale clouded yellow harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Pale 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
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Pale clouded yellow, mainly recognized by its attraction to vibrant flower colors, feeds on pollen directly and in doing so, inadvertently transfers pollen from one flower to another, aiding in the cross-pollination process.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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