Callophrys niphon
(Hübner, 1819)
Eastern Pine Elfin
Species Guides
1Callophrys niphon, the eastern pine elfin, is a small in the Lycaenidae native to North America. It is closely associated with pine and has a single period that varies geographically. The is distinguished from similar elfins by wing pattern characteristics.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Callophrys niphon: //ˌkæloʊˈfrɪs ˈnɪfɒn//
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Identification
Distinguished from the western pine elfin (Callophrys eryphon) by having two dark bars instead of one in the forewing underside . The strong patterning on the underside also aids identification. Small size and association with pine provide additional context.
Images
Appearance
Small with wingspan of 22–27 mm. Forewing underside has two dark bars in the (not one). Underside of wings shows strong patterning. Similar overall to western pine elfin but separable by the doubled forewing cell bars.
Habitat
Sandy areas with pine trees. Within its broader range, occurs in pine-dominated woodlands and associated sandy soils.
Distribution
Eastern United States and southern Canada. Ranges across most of the eastern U.S. and into the southern portions of Canadian provinces.
Seasonality
One annually. March to April in the southern part of range. Mid-May to early June in the northern part of range.
Diet
Larval food: jack pine (Pinus banksiana) and white pine (Pinus strobus). Caterpillars consume flower buds, flowers, and developing seedpods.
Host Associations
- Pinus banksiana - larval foodplantjack pine
- Pinus strobus - larval foodplantwhite pine
Life Cycle
Females lay singly on flower buds. Caterpillars feed on flowers and developing seedpods. occurs in loosely formed cocoons beneath litter below the plant. Chrysalids hibernate through winter.
Behavior
are laid singly on flower buds of pines. Caterpillars feed on both floral and seed structures. occurs as chrysalids in ground-level cocoons.
Ecological Role
of pine through larval association with reproductive structures. Serves as prey for various during its brief period.
Similar Taxa
- Callophrys eryphonWestern pine elfin; differs in having only one dark bar in forewing underside versus two in C. niphon
- Callophrys gryneusJuniper hairstreak; associated with junipers rather than pines, different wing pattern
More Details
Taxonomic note
GBIF lists this as a synonym under Incisalia niphon, though Callophrys niphon remains the widely used combination in North American literature.
Flight period variation
The pronounced north-south difference in timing (March-April vs. May-June) reflects phenological tracking of plant development across latitudes.