Callophrys eryphon “Western Pine Elfin” Lycaenidae
Glacier National Park, MT
June 20, 2014
Robert Niese
Another common, easily recognizable Lycaenid here in Montana.
Lycaenidae
Plebejus icarioides “Boisduval’s Blue” Lycaenidae
Missoula, MT
June 15, 2014
Robert Niese
Callophrys augustinus “Brown Elfin” Lycaenidae
Glacier National Park, MT
June 20, 2014
Robert Niese
This is a pretty common butterfly here in Montana. You can easily recognize them by their Lycaenid shape and dull metallic-y brown color. These guys don’t have tails like the hairstreaks, but sometimes have a tail-like lobe on their hindwings.
Satyrium saepium “Hedgerow Hairstreak” Lycaenidae
Seeley Lake, MT
July 26, 2014
Robert Niese
An adorable coppery hairstreak that rears its young on our abundant Ceanothus velutinus, or Snowbrush, here in Montana. Snowbrush grows best in open, brushy areas like those created after a fire or in a clearcut. And where there’s Ceanothus you’ll find these adorable Hedgerow Hairstreaks.
Glaucopsyche lygdamus “Silvery Blue” Lycaenidae
Glacier National Park, MT
June 21, 2014
Robert Niese
As with many members of the Lycaenidae family (blues, coppers, and hairstreaks), the caterpillars of this species are tended by ants which provide the vulnerable larvae with protection in exchange for sugary “honeydew” which the caterpillars excrete from their backs. Check it out.
Northwest Naturalist 