Bartram's Scrub-Hairstreak
Strymon acis bartrami
Bartram's Scrub-Hairstreak is a federally endangered butterfly found only in South Florida pine rocklands where pineland croton grows.
This small hairstreak depends on pine rocklands in Miami-Dade County and the lower Florida Keys. Its caterpillars feed almost exclusively on pineland croton.
Periodic fire keeps the habitat open and renews host-plant growth; development, invasive plants, and severe storms threaten the few remaining populations.
Habitat:
Pine Flatwoods and Sandhills, Scrub and Dry Prairie
Area / Range:
South Florida, Florida Keys
Diet:
Caterpillars eat pineland croton leaves and flowers. Adults drink nectar from small native wildflowers.
Behavior:
Adults stay close to host plants, perch low, and make quick local flights. They rub their hindwings so the tails mimic moving antennae.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Sunny calm days in intact pine rockland, from designated trails without approaching host plants.
Florida Native Status:
Native endemic subspecies
Conservation Status:
Federally endangered. It survives in a small number of South Florida and lower Keys pine-rockland sites.
Safety Level:
Low Risk
Safety Information:
Harmless. Observe from trails and never collect butterflies, caterpillars, eggs, or host plants.
Benefits to Property:
Adults pollinate native flowers and the species indicates functioning pine-rockland habitat.
Property Concerns:
Caterpillar feeding is restricted to its native host and does not create landscape damage. Pesticides and removal of pineland croton are serious threats.
Fun Fact:
The hindwing tails and nearby markings form a false head that can draw a predator away from the butterfly's real head.
Wildlife Laws:
The butterfly is protected as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. Taking, possessing, harming, harassing, or damaging occupied habitat is prohibited without authorization.
Identification:
Look for gray underwings crossed by bold white-and-black lines, a rusty-red patch near the hindwing corner, and two delicate tails that create a false-head pattern.