Lupine Fest
Species Spotlight: Frosted Elfin
The frosted elfin (Callophyrs irus) is a butterfly that depends on pine barrens habitat, such as the Albany Pine Bush.
Frosted elfins are small and non-migratory. They have a wingspan around 1 inch and are a dark brown, grey color. They can be distinguished from other elfins by the black spot on their hindwing.
The larvae (caterpillars) rely on wild blue lupine, just like Karner blue butterflies.
Frosted elfins overwinter as pupae with adults emerging in the spring to mate and lay eggs. Larvae feed on the flowers and seed pods of wild blue lupine, and in other locations wild indigo.
A species of greatest conservation need, frosted elfins are facing steep declines around the country due to habitat loss and is likely extirpated from much of its previous range. Thankfully, the management practices used within the Albany Pine Bush are helping to support the population here. Research on their lives and numbers is needed and ongoing.