|
Description
This species and the orange 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. The males of both species 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 clouded sulphur inhabits fields, gardens, meadows, and woodland edges. This is a butterfly of open spaces. It can be found in all 88 Ohio counties.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Eggs are laid singly on leaves of various legumes, especially clovers. The caterpillars are bright green with a darker back stripe and light side stripes. Before becoming a butterfly, it overwinters in a green chrysalis.
|