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

Harvester

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 		 Because this species has a small proboscis, taking nectar from flowers can be difficult. Instead, it often takes mineral salts from mud puddles and animal scat such as bird droppings.
 

Harvester
Feniseca tarquinius

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: April to August with at least three broods

• Wings: 1.1 - 1.3 inches
Description
There is no other small Ohio butterfly resembling the harvester. Its ventral wing surfaces have fine white markings that look like bird droppings. It also has a very small proboscis.

Habitat and Habits
The harvester inhabits wet woods, creeks, and riverbanks. It can be found statewide wherever streams flow through woods or alder thickets.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of the harvester are carnivorous and feed on wooly aphids mainly on alders. They live among the aphids and are almost invisible when feeding. Their pupa looks like a "monkey's face." Adults "nectar" on the honeydew excreted by aphids.