(Satyrium calanus)
Hairstreaks and Elfins
Appearance: Above, both male and female are dark brown. Below, brownish to dark gray. Spots of postmedian bands are elongated and edged in white. Blue tail spot usually not capped with orange. Two tails on hindwing with one longer than the other. Essentially an eastern species, but found uncommonly in Colorado foothills and mountains. Those found in Colorado tend to be more whitish gray below.
Wingspan: Small; 1 to 1 1/4 inches.
Habitat: Open fields in or near oak woodlands; gambel oak and bur oak groves along stream courses.
Flight Times: June to early August; one brood. Eggs overwinter.
Larval Foodplant: Gambel oak.
Did You Know…
There is a Rocky Mountain population isolated from the common and widespread Eastern population.
