Dainty Sulphur
Common NameDainty Sulphur
Scientific NameNathalis iole
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsyellow, black
HabitatOpen fields, meadows, roadsides, disturbed areas, grasslands
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, occasionally straying north into central and eastern US
Host Plantspartridge pea, senna, alfalfa
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods in warmer regions)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a white stripe, feeding on foliage. Pupae are green or brown, attached by a silken girdle, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its exceptionally small size, bright yellow coloration, and the specific pattern of black markings on the forewing apex and hindwing margin. Often flies low to the ground.
Description
A very small, bright yellow butterfly with distinct black markings on the forewing tips and a small black spot on the hindwing margin. The underside is typically paler yellow or greenish-yellow.
