Behr's Hairstreak
Satyrium behrii
Habitat
Status
Endangered (Federal)
Red List (Provincial)
Description
Behr's Hairstreaks are small tailless butterflies with a wingspan of 2.5-3 cm (1-1.5 in). The distinctive upper side of the wings is orange with a wide black border. The underside of the wings are greyish-brown with rows of black spots bordered by white. Caterpillars are 10 to 15 mm long and are green with a white line down the back.
Behr's Hairstreak adults fly from early June to mid-July. They are found only in the Okanagan Valley wherever Antelope-brush is present in close proximity to wildflowers including Yarrow, Gray Horsebrush, Brown-eyed Susans and Buckwheats. Eggs are laid solely on Antelope-brush.
Sparse cover of Ponderosa Pine and the presence of wet puddling sites may be important features.
Threats
-Destruction and degradation of antelope-brush habitat from agricultural and urban development
-Degradation of habitat from recreational activities (eg ATVs)
-Pesticides and herbicides
-Destructive wildfires
You Can Help!
-Protect and conserve Antelope-brush habitat
-Practice responsible recreation; avoid sensitive ecosystems and stay on trails
-Reduce pesticide and herbicide use
Resources
