Hairstreaks, Elfins, Blues, and Coppers(Family Lycaenidae)
From Bugwoodwiki
Maier, C.T., C.R. Lemmon, J.M. Fengler, D.F. Schweitzer, and R.C. Reardon. 2004. Caterpillars on the Foliage of Conifers in the Northeastern United States. FHTET-2004-1. Morgantown, WV: USDA Forest Service, Forest Health Technology Enterprise Team; 151 p.
The stout caterpillars of this large butterfly family often appear slug-like and have a head that can be retracted into the thorax. They are relatively small in size, with most between 12 to 20 mm at maturity. Many have short, dense hairs covering the body. The caterpillars have variable color, although the eastern species on conifers are mainly green with white or yellow markings. This color pattern affords protection by allowing them to blend into their foliar background.
Most of the northeastern members of this family feed upon herbaceous plants, but the hairstreaks eat mainly the leaves of trees and shrubs. The species that are associated with ants have dorsal glands on A7 that produce sugary secretions to feed ants. The ants, in return, protect them.
The adults tend to be marked sharply with red, orange, or various blues, although species on conifers may have duller color. Butterflies of the conifer feeders are among the earliest fliers in the spring. Many adults prefer sunny areas where they drink nectar from blossoms.
