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Species
Spotlight

Giant Silk
Moth Survey

BOG ELFIN (Callophrys lanoraieensis)

Identification
This is the smallest elfin. Male is dark above with orange scaling and female is brown above. Underside of hindwing is generally dark with an obscure pattern and the outer margin is frosted.

Kaufman's Butterflies of North America, page 106
Glassberg's Butterflies Through Binoculars, plate 20

Habitat in Vermont
Spruce bogs

Host Plant
Black Spruce (Picea mariana)

Adult Food Preferences
Whatever’s flowering.

U.S. Distribution

VBS Distribution
No records in Vermont

VBS Flight Period
It’s expected flight period is from May to early June.

Notes
This may very well be Vermont’s most elusive butterfly, if it indeed flies in our state. In all likelihood, it will be found in or near a spruce bog. Its small size would be the first clue. But its resemblance to Eastern Pine Elfin can cause it to be overlooked. Remember, however, that Eastern Pine Elfin doesn’t often fly in spruce bogs. Male Bog Elfins reportedly perch on the highest spruce branch accessible to wait for females. Yet other reports have them walking along the bog mat as well. In any event, supreme vigilance and determination (and immunity to black flies) may be required to find this butterfly in Vermont.

Other Atlases
Connecticut (no records)
Massachusetts (no records)
U.S.A.
Canada