Loki Hairstreak
Common NameLoki Hairstreak
Scientific NameCallophrys loki
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, brown, white, green
HabitatArid chaparral, rocky slopes, canyons
Geographic RangeSouthern California, northern Baja California
Host PlantsEriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum spp.
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or leaves. Larvae feed on flowers and developing seeds. Overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the orange-brown underside with a distinct white postmedian line and the absence of tails on the hindwings. Iridescent green or blue scaling on the body and forewing base is also characteristic.
Description
A small hairstreak with an orange-brown underside, featuring a prominent, often broken, white postmedian line on the hindwing. The body and base of the forewing often show iridescent green or blue scaling.
