NORTHERN METALMARK C a l e p h e l i s
b o re a l i s (cal-eh-fel-iss • bor-ee-al-iss)
GO S SAM ER -WI N G FAM I LY (Lyca en i da e)
WINGSPAN:
.9”- 1.2”
31 edges of dry woodlands and associated dry open meadows. Where its host plant and favored nectar plant, black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta) occur in close proximity are good places to look. host plAnt: round-leaved ragwort (Packera obovata). May use other closely related species, such as prairie ragwort (P. plattensis). discussion: The northern metalmark is rare to uncommon in Ohio. Its common name comes from the medial and submarginal bands of hABitAt:
metallic-silver marks on both dorsal and ventral wing surfaces.This species is found in Ohio where the bedrock is limestone or dolomite. Central Ohio and the bluegrass physiographic region of southern Ohio support several colonies of this butterfly. Northern metalmarks are always found in close association with its larval host plant. The butterflies prefer shaded wood edges, semi-shaded woodland trails, and areas near wooded stream banks. They can be found nectaring on black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
or butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) in adjacent fields. Adults often rest with their wings held horizontally while they are at flowers. On hot days they can be found underneath flowers in the shade with their wings folded and nectaring from this protective position. Metalmarks often perch in this manner when disturbed. They have a low, delicate flight pattern, making them easy to overlook or confuse with a dark moth.
occurrence: Ja Fb Mr Ap Ma Jn Ju Ag Sp Oc Nv Dc photography
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