Orange Brimstone
Common NameOrange Brimstone
Scientific NameGonepteryx cleopatra
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorspale yellow, greenish-white
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrubland, maquis, garrigue, and gardens, especially in Mediterranean climates.
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Host PlantsRhamnus alaternus, Rhamnus lycioides
Flight PeriodMarch to October (bivoltine, with adults overwintering)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of buckthorn host plants. Larvae are green and feed on the foliage. Adults emerge in summer, aestivate during the hottest months, and then overwinter, becoming active again in spring.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pale yellow-green undersides with a small central spot on each wing. Males are easily identified by the bright orange patch on their forewings, while females resemble the Common Brimstone but often have a slightly more pointed forewing apex.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with pale yellow to greenish-white undersides, featuring a small reddish-brown spot on each wing. Males display a vibrant orange flush on the upperside of their forewings, which is not visible in this image.
