Observation date: June 13, 2024
Date notes: I believe the date would still be good as they're being seen yet in New Jersey. Also, if I may state, it seems very or too worn for the fresh Summer Azures that came out a week or so ago.
Submitted by: hockeybruce7
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: A worn chalky white azure, studied more after returning from the field. Possibly on Black Cohosh, but not sure from the photos. Unfortunately, in my habit and haste to delete out-of-focus photos back at the car, I deleted a photo of this azure with an attending ant on its thorax. I just thought it was unusual at the time, but 'missed' the significance of what I was seeing.
Status: Resident
Verified by: davidwright
Verified date: June 16, 2024
Coordinator notes: Individual Azures are short-lived. They survive 7-10 days on average. This is a worn female, as you can tell by the backlit forewings in one photo. The broad black DFW margins can be seen. Interesting observation about that ant on her thorax. The ant no doubt crawled on her when she was trying to oviposit on a host plant. I know of no black cohosh in the area. She could have been a late Cherry Gall Azure.; there are cherry galls and nannyberry floral buds there. However, because of the influence of global warming, it seems the Summer Azures are starting flight a week earlier than the y di 20 years ago. The colorings of this individual are best for Summer Azure. Spirea in floral bud is a popular host at this time.
