Gold-hunter's
Hairstreak
Satyrium auretorum
Size: 1.0 - 1.25 inches wingspan
Key ID features: Light brown above. Slightly darker brown below with variable uneven spot bands, and submarginal band of black chevrons, female more strongly marked. Tail barely noticeable, with adjacent blue frosted patch, and one or two of the chevrons with a small orange patch.
Similar species: Somewhat similar to Hedgerow HS, which has more defined median line on HW below. Mountain Mahogany HS is more grayish below, often with a more frosted look.
Host plant: Oaks (Quercus), primarily Oregon White Oak (Quercus garryana).
Habitat: Oak-pine stands and shrubby habitats near oaks.
Range: Along California border in Jackson County and SE Klamath County.
Season: Early June to mid-July
Abundance: Uncommon
Conservation Status: Secure