Orange Sulphur / Alfalfa Butterfly
Colias eurytheme (Boisduval, 1852)
Family: Pieridae
Status: Abundant resident
NENHP Rank: Not listed
Range: Inhabits North America south of southern Canada. In Nebraska it can be found statewide. It is one of a few butterfly species in Nebraska reported from all 93 counties.
Larval Hostplant(s): Many herbaceous legumes, but especially alfalfa (Medicago sativa).
Broods/Flight Times: Multiple broods from spring thaw to killing frost.
Overwintering: As a pupae.
Habitat: Equally at home in urban and rural setting but especially abundant near cultivated alfalfa.
Avg. Wingspan: 1 3/8 – 2 3/4 inches
Found at:
Similar Species: Clouded Sulphur
Notes: Nebraska’s most common butterfly. Males fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Albinic individuals (always females) are common.
Alfalfa Butterfly, Buffalo Co., J. Nikkila
