Observation date: August 03, 2025
Submitted by: jamesvonloh
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Individual ovipositing against stems and leaves of a littleleaf ratany dwarf shrub with recently emerging leaves; it is from a small group of metalmarks I believe to be Dury's using habitat above (east of) the western pavilion on Tortugas Mountain near Las Cruces, NM. This is my first sighting of this species at this west-facing location: I have visited this site often - over 5 years, to monitor a population of rain lilies which flower about a week after significant summer/monsoon rainstorms. Stunted littleleaf ratany - host dwarf-shrubs for Dury's, were present and with leaves emerging, they had not yet flowered. The morning was hot, calm, and under full sunshine.
Status: Resident
Verified by: stevecary
Verified date: January 13, 2026
Coordinator notes: terrific info, Jim. keep up the fantastic work.
