ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Hackberry

 Hackberry



 
The hackberry is a very active butterfly that has a habit of perching on tree trunks or leaves and then flying out to investigate intruders such as people walking down a forested path. They are also attracted to white items, and will land on your T-shirt, making them difficult to photograph.
 

Hackberry
Asterocampa celtis

At-a-Glance

Flight Period: June, August, and September

Wings: 1.9 - 2.5 inches
 

Description
The hackberry has very noticeable white antennae clubs.

Habitat and Habits
The hackberry inhabits woodland edges, stream banks, trails, and roads through woods. It can be found in all regions of Ohio near hackberry trees. It is fond of mud puddles, animal scat, human perspiration, and oil drippings from cars. They are seldom found far from where their larval host abounds. When found they are usually present in good numbers. The hackberry may be baited with rotten fruit.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae feed on hackberry leaves.