Pink-edged Sulphur
Colias interior
Pink-edged Sulphurs are northern butterflies that are much more at home in the woods than their relatives, Orange and Clouded Sulphurs, which prefer more open areas. Its chief larval foods are blueberries.
It is not often an abundant species in Wisconsin; the group photo here is deceptive, as I saw more of this species puddling on the day that the picture was taken than I had previously seen in my life.

Weekly sightings for Pink-edged Sulphur
Identifying characteristics
Above, the wings are yellow with black marginal borders. The males have a solid black border and look very much like the Clouded Sulphur, while the females have a much-reduced border on the forewing and a no border on the hindwing. Below, the wings are a yellowish color with a single central spot and a distinct pink edge to the wings.
Similar species
Clouded Sulphur males are sometimes very similar including having a distinct pink edge to the wings, but below, the Pink-edged Sulphurs lack the faint row of black marginal spots and have just a single central spot.
Habitat
Prefers barren areas with blueberries, the host plant of this species.
Flight
This species has but a single brood and may be found from early June through August.
Abundance
More common as you move farther north. I have now seen over 50 puddling together on sandy soil.
Late Pink-edged Sulphur Sightings
Date | County | Reported by |
---|---|---|
Aug 26, 2018 | Juneau | Mike Reese, Carol Kubicek |
Aug 28, 2023 | Jackson | Nan Meske |
Aug 30, 2008 | Iron | Ryan Brady |
Sep 7, 2002 | Bayfield | Dave Hanson, David Bra... |
Sep 13, 2009 | Bayfield | Ryan Brady |
Locations



Moquah Barrons, Bayfield Co., WI. July 1, 2008.

Moquah Barrons, Bayfield Co., WI. July 1, 2008.

Moquah Barrons, Bayfield Co., WI. June 30, 2008.

Crex Meadows, Burnett Co., WI. July 21, 2006.

Crex Meadows, Burnett Co., WI. July 21, 2006.