Johnson’s Hairstreak (butterfly)

Photo is needed for this SGCN.

Adults have a wingspan of 25-35mm. Males and females are brown, often with hints of orange or red-orange, and females may have more brown coloration near the wing margins and tails. Double tails (“hairstreaks”) are present on the hindwings, with inner tails being longer. Note that tails may not always be present for identification, as these can be lost during predation attacks. Both males and females are brown ventrally with thin white postmedian lines bordered with black on the inside edge; several black dots or chevrons extend halfway up the ventral hindwing and are capped with blue and orange scales. The upper dorsals on males are further characterized by small pheromone patches, which are used to attract females.

Overview

  • Species Common Name Johnson's Hairstreak (butterfly)
  • Species Scientific Name Callophrys johnsoni

Ecoregions

    Special needs

    Johnson’s hairstreak has often been labeled as an old-growth obligate butterfly; however, this description does not capture the full range of habitats in which the species can be found. In Oregon and Washington, Johnson’s hairstreak can be found in a wide range of habitats and forest stages, from moist old growth western hemlock forests to dry ponderosa pine woodlands. Eggs are usually laid on dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium spp.) host plants, although they have also been found in multiples on mistletoe or adjacent hemlock branches. Adults puddle at mud and springs and typically feed on nectar, although nectaring has not been observed in eastern Oregon.

    Limiting factors

    Threats include logging, mistletoe management, pesticide use, wildfires, and windstorms. Hybridization or competition with the thicket hairstreak are potential threats.

    Conservation actions

    Maintain and enhance existing habitat with appropriate host and nectar plants. Protect occupied and potential sites in habitat where dwarf mistletoe hosts are present. Monitor existing populations. Survey suitable habitat for new populations. Avoid pesticide use in and around occupied habitats.

    Key reference or plan

    2017 Conservation Assessment. Read here