Orange Sulphur

What it is

Colias eurytheme, the orange sulphur, also known as the alfalfa butterfly and in its larval stage as the alfalfa caterpillar, is a butterfly of the family Pieridae, where it belongs to the lowland group of "clouded yellows and sulphurs" subfamily Coliadinae. It is found throughout North America from southern Canada to Mexico, but is absent from the central and southeastern United States.

Where and when to find it

Habitat

Common in open areas like meadows, fields, gardens, and roadsides across most of the United States.

How to find it

Look for their bright orange wings fluttering over low-growing plants like clover. They often land to sip nectar from flowers.

Best time of day

Sunny days, from spring through fall, especially midday.

How it lives

What it eats

Nectar from various flowers

What eats it

Birds, spiders, praying mantises, lizards

Worth knowing

• The caterpillars eat clover and alfalfa, which are important farm crops.
• They often fly quickly, making them tricky to photograph.
• Sometimes you might see a pale yellow version of this butterfly; they are often females.
• These butterflies can tell the difference between colors, helping them find flowers.
• They have 'taste buds' on their feet to sample plants.
• Many generations of Orange Sulphurs can hatch and grow in one year.

Why it matters

They are important pollinators, helping plants grow fruits and seeds. Their caterpillars are a food source for birds.