Oeneis tanana

Oeneis tanana is a species of butterfly, a member of the Satyrinae. It occurs in Alaska, and is believed to be the only endemic species of butterfly in the state. It is speculated to be a hybrid species of Oeneis bore and O. chryxus. The species is threatened due to habitat loss.

Range and habitat

It occurs only in the Tanana River valley area of Alaska. This valley, or part of it, was a glacial refugium during the last ice age. O. tanana inhabits clearings in boreal spruce forests.

Larval foods

Speculated to be grasses and sedges.

Adult foods

Unknown, but related species sip nectar.

Life cycle

Adults are on the wing between mid May and early July, but mostly mid June. It takes two seasonal cycles for the caterpillars to completely develop. Adults are only found during odd numbered years.