ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Orange Sulphur

 Orange Sulphur


 		 This species and the clouded sulphur hybridize across Ohio and over much of their entire range. It is difficult to separate the individuals. But in general, the clouded sulphur is yellow and the orange sulphur is orange.
 

Orange Sulphur
Colias eurytheme

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: April to November (continous broods), but more common in the fall

• Wings: 1.9 - 2.7 inches


 
Description
The males of both species (the clouded and orange sulphur) have narrow, dark dorsal outer wing margins. The females have wider dark outer wing margins, which are broken up by a few yellow spots. White females, form "alba," occur in both species, but are not as common as the yellow or orange females.

Habitat and Habits
The orange sulphur inhabits fields, gardens, and woodland edges. It favors open areas even more so than the clouded sulphur.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of this species feed on alfalfa and other clovers.