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.
Cercyonis pegala "Common Wood-nymph" Nymphalidae
Missoula,MT
September 2, 2013
Robert Niese
Euphydryas editha "Edith’s Checkerspot" Nymphalidae
Seeley Lake, MT
July 26, 2014
Robert Niese
The caterpillars of this species will hibernate overwinter and can do so for many years before metamorphosing into adults.
Northwest Naturalist 