Vauthier's Sulphur
Common NameVauthier's Sulphur
Scientific NameColias vauthierii
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, orange, green
HabitatOpen grasslands, shrublands, and mountainous areas
Geographic RangeChile (endemic)
Host PlantsTrifolium spp. (clover), Vicia spp. (vetch)
Flight PeriodOctober to April (Southern Hemisphere spring to autumn)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green and feed on various legumes. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white discal spot on the pale yellow-green hindwing underside, often with a reddish-brown ring. Its bright yellow to orange upperside and restricted range to Chile are also key identifiers.
Description
A medium-sized sulphur butterfly, typically bright yellow to orange-yellow on the upperside, with pale yellow to greenish undersides. The hindwing underside features a prominent white discal spot, often ringed with reddish-brown.
