Sulphur Butterflies: Pyrisitia
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Sometimes names reveal as much, or as little, of the object named, as the interpreter wishes.
The Little Yellow butterfly (Pyrisitia lisa), is indeed a little yellow butterfly, along with being the most widespread of the five native North American Pyrisitia species.
The two small black spots on the bottom of the hindwing, near the legs, are the key field identification clues for differentiating it from the Mimosa Yellow.
The Mimosa Yellow (Pyrisitia nise), picture two, prefer forest habitats.
The look of the hindwing changes from season to season, taking on a variety of yellow shades and patterns. The lack of the two dark spots on the bottom of the hindwing (next to the feet) is the main field identification clue.
The caterpillars feed on plants in the mimosa genus of the pea family, explaining the name.
The Tailed Orange (Pyrisitia proterpia) butterfly gets its name from the very small tail-like projection at the bottom of its wings.
Primarily a neotropical species, tailed orange butterflies also have a small presence in the Southwest and Texas.
The picture shows a side view, which contrasts the top and bottom wings. The bottom wings appear darker that the tops, and come with brown patterns along the veins.
Unlike many butterflies, with open wings, the Tailed Orange presents itself in a square rather than circular form.
Researchers are debating the status of the Pyrisitia genus, wondering if it should be combined with another Coliadinae genus.
© 2008-2011 Patricia A. Michaels