Species Detail

Xami Hairstreak

Callophrys xami (Reakirt, [1867])

JPG -- species photo

Attributes of Callophrys xami


Family: Gossamer-wing Butterflies (Lycaenidae)

Subfamily: Hairstreaks (Theclinae)

Identification: Hindwing with 1 short and 1 long tail. Upperside of male brown; female reddish brown. Underside hindwing is yellow-green with jagged white postmedian line forming a W near tails.

Life history: Eggs are laid singly on underside of host plant leaves near the base. Caterpillars eat their way into the thick leaves.

Flight: Many flights from April-December.

Wing span: 3/4 - 1 1/4 inches (2 - 3.2 cm).

Caterpillar hosts: Succulents (Sedum and Echeveria species) in the Crassulaceae family.

Adult food: Flower nectar.

Habitat: Rocky canyons and slopes, levees.

Range: Guatemala north to southeastern Arizona and central Texas.

Conservation: Colonies in United States are small and local. South Texas population is extirpated.

NatureServe Global Status: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.

Management needs: Determine status of South Texas population and conserve habitats elsewhere.

Documented Records for Callophrys xami
in Arizona



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