The Clouded Yellow is the scarcest of Ireland’s regular migrants. Like the Painted Lady, it originates from north Africa and southern Europe and migrates north each spring; reaching Irish shores in varying numbers. It is a strong flier and my experience it can turn up in almost any habitat but on the continent it definitely shows a preference for sunny, flowery habitats. It is similar to several other European species but the shade of yellow and solid black marginal band help confirm its ID. Having said that however it never rests with its wings open and is a very flighty species, so the observer has to be patient to catch sight of the diagnostic upperside features of this species.

Distribution: Resident in southern Europe but can be seen almost everywhere in summer, except the far north.

Flight Period: In the Canary Islands it can be seen all year. In the rest of Europe March-October. Continuously brooded throughout the season.

Habitat:  Almost everywhere, but more often in warm areas with flowers. Rarely above 2000m.

Foodplants: A wide range of Legumes, including clovers (Trifolium), Lucerne (Medicago sativa), Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) and Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus).

Nectar Sources: Knapweeds (Centaurea), scabiouses (Knautia), Lantana, Marjoram (Origanum vulgare), mints (Mentha) and others.

<Prev
Next>