Size
Wing span: 1 1/2 - 2 5/8 inches (3.9 - 6.6 cm).(2)
Identification
Similar to other yellow Colias species; has no postmedian spots, single spot on hindwing surrounded by pink.
"Both sexes with conspicuous pink wing edges. Male yellow; female yellow or white (very rarely). Upperside of male with black border; border on female may be incomplete or only seen at tip of wing. Underside of hindwing clear yellow with single silver cell spot circled in pink." (2)
Range
Boreal forest region from BC, Oregon to Newfoundland, Virginia
Habitat
Open areas - rock outcrops, burns, clear cuts, etc.
"From British Columbia and eastern Oregon east through the Great Lakes area to northern New England. Isolated population in central Appalachians of northeast Pennsylvania, western Maryland, eastern West Virginia, and northwest Virginia." (2)
Season
One flight from June-August.(2)
Food
Larvae eat blueberries (Vaccinium spp.)
Life Cycle
Males patrol with a slow flight for females. Eggs are laid in midsummer on blueberry leaves, and young caterpillars overwinter. Most feeding occurs the following spring.(2)
Contributed by
Joel Kits on 9 August, 2005 - 7:05pm
Additional contributions by
Matthew RothLast updated 9 October, 2005 - 8:44am
