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Scudder's Sulphur

(Colias scudderi)

 

 

Scudder's Sulphur (Colias scudderi Reakirt)

Wing span: 1 1/2 - 2 inches (3.8 - 5.1 cm).

Identification: Upper surface of male lemon yellow; dark wide border cut by yellow veins. Females often white, with small black cell spot; border incomplete or lacking. Underside of both sexes dirty green.

Life history: Males patrol near willows for receptive females. Females lay eggs singly on young host plant leaves. Caterpillars eat leaves. Second-, third-, and fourth-stage caterpillars hibernate.

Flight: One flight from late June-August.

Caterpillar hosts: Willow shrubs in the willow family (Salicaceae).

Adult food: Flower nectar.

Habitat: Mountain meadows and willow bogs.

Range: Alaska south through Rocky Mountains to northern New Mexico.

 

Scudder's Sulphur (Colias scudderi)