Eastern Pine Elfin 
Callophrys niphon

Eastern Pine Elfin is uncommon and local but widespread throughout the state. The habitat is open pine woods, roadsides through pine woods or old fields near pine woods where young pines are sprouting. It is often found perching or ovipositing on saplings less than head-high or on bare ground around them. The hostplants are a variety of pine species, including Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana),loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and sand pine (Pinus clausa). It is also often seen resting on the branches of mature pines or swirling though the treetops. There is one brood in March and April into early June, with the peak from mid-March 15 to mid-April. Most records are from the northern half of the state, but the Coastal Plain has bountiful habitat. Early Date: March 17 (Grady County); Late Date: June 4 (Murray County). Conservation Status: Secure.