New Jersey Butterfly Club

Brown Elfin

Callophrys augustinus

Identification: Very small (between size of Eastern Tailed-Blue and Banded Hairstreak). Almost never seen with wings open. Below: Rich, reddish-brown with some iridescence when fresh. Lighter on outer half of hindwing. No obvious white markings and no marginal frosting.

NJ Status and Distribution: Resident. Occurs throughout the state—generally uncommon and local in North Jersey but considerably more widespread in the southern counties.

Habitat: Dry, open, often rocky areas near woods with food plants.

Flight Period: One brood from early April to early June. Extreme dates: North Jersey 3/23—6/7; South Jersey 3/23—5/30.

Caterpillar Food Plants: Many plants in the Heath Family (Ericaceae), but especially lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium) and huckleberries (Gaylussacia).

Overwintering Stage: Pupa.

Good Locations: Crater Lake Road (Delaware Water Gap NRA), Appalachian Trail to Millbrook Fire Tower, Ramapo Mountain SF, Julian L. Capik Nature Preserve, Belleplain SF, Warren Grove RA.

Comments: A plain little butterfly that nonetheless is a joy to see in the spring. Likes to nectar on spurges (Euphorbia), lowbush blueberries, and huckleberries. Brown Elfins are not flashy, so you must look carefully to spot them.