About 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.
How to Identify Arctic Sulphur
Arctic Sulphur (Colias nastes) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Pieridae. Adults typically measure 36-46 mm wingspan.
Arctic Sulphur Habitat
Arctic Sulphur is found in tundra & arctic habitats, particularly across Arctic Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Rocky Mountain alpine zones. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Arctic Sulphur Diet and Feeding
Arctic Sulphur feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Arctic Sulphur Found?
Arctic Sulphur can be found in Arctic Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Rocky Mountain alpine zones, where it inhabits tundra & arctic environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Arctic Sulphur can be found
Is Arctic Sulphur Dangerous?
Arctic Sulphur is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Arctic Sulphur Role in Nature
Arctic Sulphur plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Arctic Sulphur
What does Arctic Sulphur look like?
The Arctic Sulphur typically measures 36-46 mm wingspan.
Where is Arctic Sulphur found?
The Arctic Sulphur is found in Arctic Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Rocky Mountain alpine zones and typically inhabits tundra & arctic environments.
What does Arctic Sulphur eat?
The Arctic Sulphur feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Arctic Sulphur dangerous to humans?
The Arctic Sulphur is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Arctic Sulphur?
On overcast days, this butterfly can raise its body temperature 10 degrees above air temperature by basking laterally to maximize solar absorption.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Arctic Sulphur (Colias nastes). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/arctic-sulphur
MLA:
"Arctic Sulphur." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/arctic-sulphur.