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Clouded Sulphur

Clouded Sulphur

Colias philodice

A species of Clouded yellows, Also known as Bordered Yellow Butterfly, Yellow Sulphur, Yellow Butterfly

The scientific name is Colias philodice, also known as the clouded Sulphur. It is very commonly seen in North America with pale yellow wings, which have solid black borders on the upper surface and a doubled hindwing spot trimmed in brownish red. Interestingly, the wing color of the clouded Sulphur varies in a seasonal manner from white to yellow and the spots on the wings also change as well, being more pronounced during the cool months in spring and fall.

General Info About Clouded Sulphur
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Attributes of Clouded Sulphur
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Pink
Habitat
field; lawn; meadow; roadside; puddle
Adult Food Sources
Aster (aster spp.), goldenrod (solidago spp.), milkweed (asclepias spp.), thistle (cirsium spp.), ironweed (vernonia spp.)
Larva Food Source
Alfalfa (medicago sativa), clovers (trifolium spp.), pea plants (pisum spp.), vetches (vicia spp.), crown vetch (securigera varia)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
The Clouded Sulphur 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 Sulphur 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 Sulphur
They range over most of North America with the exception of Labrador, Nunavut, and northern Quebec.
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Distribution Area of Clouded Sulphur
Range over most of North America
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Adult Size of Clouded Sulphur
3 - 5 cm
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Predators of Clouded Sulphur Larvae
Ants, wasps, spiders, birds, rodents
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Predators of Adult Clouded Sulphur
Birds, mantises, spiders, rodents, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Clouded Sulphur
Clouded Sulphur can thermoregulate using their distinctive wings, shivering to warm up before flight in colder temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Clouded Sulphur
Tips for Finding Clouded Sulphur
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Youth Habitat of Clouded Sulphur
Grasslands and Prairies, Meadows, Pastures, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Clouded Sulphur
Grasslands and Prairies, Meadows, Flower Fields, Forest Edges, Open Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Clouded Sulphur
Adult clouded Sulphur are generally most active on sunny days with little to no wind, especially during the warmer parts of the day when temperatures are between 60°F and 100°F (15°C to 38°C). The early stages of clouded Sulphur can be found throughout the growth seasons of their host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Clouded Sulphur
Clear, sunny weather is best for finding adult clouded Sulphur, as overcast or rainy conditions may reduce their activity. The earlier life stages are less affected by weather but still easier to spot during dry periods when inspecting host plants.
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How and Where Can You Find Clouded Sulphur at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of clouded Sulphur are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect the host plants, checking both the tops and bottoms of leaves, especially focusing on new growth.
Larva Clouded Sulphur larvae, or caterpillars, can be found by searching host plants they are known to feed on. Look for chewed leaves or frass (caterpillar droppings) on the ground to locate the feeding larvae.
Pupal Clouded Sulphur pupae can be challenging to find as they often blend into their surroundings. Check the host plants and nearby structures where larvae might attach themselves to undergo metamorphosis. Look for camouflaged chrysalises along stems, leaves, or twigs.
Adult Adult clouded Sulphur can be spotted by visiting areas rich in flowering plants they commonly feed on. Meadows, gardens, and fields during their flight season are ideal. Observing quietly and patiently near colorful flowers, especially in the morning when they are sunning themselves or feeding, increases the chances of sighting them.
Are Clouded Sulphur harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Clouded 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
Yellow Flowers, Asteraceae
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Clouded Sulphur is an industrious pollinator, drawn to the vibrant yellow hues and the unique shapes of flowers, particularly those in the Asteraceae family. While feeding on pollen, they often inadvertently transfer it, mistaking the petals' signals as mating cues or abundant resources.
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