Lycaenidae

The Lycaenidae family, commonly known as the gossamer-winged butterflies, is one of the largest families of butterflies, encompassing over 6,000 species worldwide. This diverse group includes subfamilies such as the blues, coppers, hairstreaks, and harvesters. Members of Lycaenidae are generally small in size, often exhibiting iridescent colors and delicate wing structures. Notable species in this family include the Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas), known for its distinctive tail-like extensions on its hindwings, and the American Copper (Lycaena phlaeas), recognizable by its bright copper-colored wings.

These butterflies are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and grasslands.

Fun Fact: one of the defining characteristics of many Lycaenids is their mutualistic relationship with ants, known as myrmecophily. Caterpillars of some species secrete a sugary substance that attracts ants, which in turn protect the caterpillars from predators.