Observation date: June 05, 2020
Submitted by: sgguthart
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Weather: Sunny, light breeze, temperature in the low 70's. Elevation in the area is around 8,000'. This butterfly was puddling in the mud in the parking area just off the road and very near Sheep Creek. The butterfly kept its wings folded almost all of the time. When it did open its wings (only partially), it was an extremely quick movement.
Status: Resident
Verified by: A_baldini
Verified date: June 07, 2020
Coordinator notes: This is yet another seldom-observed elfin butterfly, the Brown Elfin (Callophrys augustinus). However, they use bearberry as their primary host plant, not stonecrop. And yes, they almost never sit with their wings open. Thanks Sally, I really appreciate all the great sightings!
