About Clouded Yellow
A fast-flying bright orange-yellow butterfly with black wing borders. A pale female form called helice has greenish-white wings instead of orange.
Did You Know?
It migrates north from the Mediterranean each year but the return generation flies south at such high altitude it is rarely observed.
How to Identify Clouded Yellow
Clouded Yellow (Colias croceus) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Pieridae. Adults typically measure Wingspan 46-54mm.
Clouded Yellow Habitat
Clouded Yellow is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Africa, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Clouded Yellow Diet and Feeding
Clouded Yellow is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Clouded Yellow Found?
Clouded Yellow can be found in Europe, Africa, Asia, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Clouded Yellow can be found
Is Clouded Yellow Dangerous?
Clouded Yellow 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.
Clouded Yellow Role in Nature
Clouded Yellow is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Clouded Yellow
What does Clouded Yellow look like?
The Clouded Yellow typically measures Wingspan 46-54mm.
Where is Clouded Yellow found?
The Clouded Yellow is found in Europe, Africa, Asia and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Clouded Yellow eat?
The Clouded Yellow feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Clouded Yellow dangerous to humans?
The Clouded Yellow is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Clouded Yellow?
It migrates north from the Mediterranean each year but the return generation flies south at such high altitude it is rarely observed.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Clouded Yellow (Colias croceus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clouded-yellow
MLA:
"Clouded Yellow." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clouded-yellow.