zoom_in Click to enlarge

Brown Elfin

▲ ▼

description Brown Elfin Overview

Callophrys augustinus, commonly called the Brown Elfin, is a small butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. It occurs across much of North America, where adults are among the early butterflies seen in spring in suitable habitats. Its caterpillars feed on plants in the heath family, Ericaceae, including blueberries, manzanitas, and related shrubs.

help Brown Elfin FAQ

Where in North America does the Brown Elfin occur?

Callophrys augustinus ranges from Newfoundland and Alaska through the northern United States and prairie provinces, with southern populations in the Appalachians and western mountains toward northern Baja California. It favors mixed conifer woods, bogs, barrens, sandy coasts, and chaparral. [Species profile](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Callophrys-augustinus)

What plants do Brown Elfin caterpillars eat?

Eastern caterpillars feed on heath-family plants such as sugar huckleberry, Vaccinium vacillans, and Labrador tea, Ledum groenlandicum. Western populations can also use plants such as madrone and dodder, so the host plant depends on location. [Host-plant details](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Callophrys-augustinus)

When should I look for a Brown Elfin butterfly?

The Brown Elfin usually has one flight each year, with adults appearing around March and April in southern areas and from May into July farther north. Its short spring flight is one reason it can be easy to miss. [Flight information](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Callophrys-augustinus)

How can I tell a Brown Elfin from a Hoary Elfin?

The Brown Elfin is a small, tailless butterfly with a two-toned hindwing underside that is dark near the body and reddish brown toward the edge. Hoary Elfins are commonly associated with bearberry, while Brown Elfin larvae more often use heath-family plants. [Identification guide](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Callophrys-augustinus)

swap_horiz

Looking for Brown Elfin alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward