Lotus Hairstreak
(Bramble Hairstreak)

Callophrys dumetorum dumetorum

Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae  

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Characteristics: This species is readily distinguished from any other Orange County butterfly by the ventral wing surfaces which are covered with bright green scale patches of variable size. Forewing length: 11-13 mm.

Similar Species: The dorsal wing pattern is very similar to that of the Western Elfin, (Incisalia augustinus iroides), but the ventral wing color is completely different.

Habitats, Behavior: The adults are often seen perching on the ground along pathways (e.g. in the Villa Park Dam area). The butterfly is fond of nectaring at Wild Buckwheat blossoms (Eriogonum fasciculatum). The males are said to perch "on protruding branches over washes and openings in the chaparral" (Emmel and Emmel, 1973) and are territorial. I usually find dumetorum populations along foothill ridges.

Distribution: Our records currently range from near sea level (Upper Newport Bay and Dana Point) to an elevation of 2300 feet in the Santa Ana Mountains, usually wherever the larval foodplant occurs. It has not yet been found in the higher elevations of the Santa Ana Mountains where Eriogonum fasciculatum grows, such as on the northeastern slopes. I suspect it will turn up in the Ortega Highway area with further exploration.

Flight Period: One brood occurs, which flies from early March to early April. Gorelick (1971) states that dumetorum flies as early as the first part of February (in southern California). Late March normally seems to be the period of peak flight.

Larval Foodplants: Coolidge (1927) found dumetorum females ovipositing on species of Eriogonum and Lotus in southern California (both plant genera are present in Orange County). In Orange County possibly both Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) and Deerweed (Lotus scoparius) are utilized.

Other Remarks: The Bramble Hairstreak is often relatively common in the foothills in Orange County. The light green patches on the undersides of the wings make this one of our most beautiful local butterflies.

From Orsak, L. J. (1977). The Butterflies of Orange County, California. Center for Pathobiology Miscellaneous Publication #3. University of California Press, New York. 349pp.

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