Arctic Sulphur vs Herald Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Arctic Sulphur | Herald Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Colias nastes | Scoliopteryx libatrix |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Pieridae | Erebidae |
| Size | 36-46 mm wingspan | 40-46 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Caves |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Arctic Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Rocky Mountain alpine zones | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Arctic Sulphur
A pale greenish-white butterfly with dusky wing margins and small dark discal spots. Its subdued coloration helps it absorb warmth while basking with wings spread. It rarely strays far from its alpine or arctic habitat.
Did You Know?
On overcast days, this butterfly can raise its body temperature 10 degrees above air temperature by basking laterally to maximize solar absorption.
Herald Moth
A distinctive moth with scalloped wing edges and orange patches that hibernates in caves, cellars, and outbuildings. One of the first moths to be seen each spring. Adults resemble dead leaves.
Did You Know?
Often hibernates in caves alongside bats, and can survive freezing temperatures during winter.