Orange-barred Sulphur
Image: SpongeLover08 (CC0)
Common NameOrange-barred Sulphur
Scientific NamePhoebis philea
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical open areas, gardens, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas), Mexico, Central America, South America, West Indies
Host PlantsSenna, Cassia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; migratory north
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and black spots, and pupae are typically green or brown, resembling a leaf.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size and bright yellow wings. Males have a distinctive orange bar on the underside of the forewing, and both sexes may have small dark spots on the forewings.
Description
A large, vibrant yellow butterfly with a robust body. Males are characterized by a prominent orange bar on the underside of the forewing, while females can be yellow or white.
