(Atlantic) Holly Azure (Celastrina idella)

Identification is problematic as they are VERY difficult to distinguish from Summer Azure in the field. Most of these are *assumed* to be Holly Azure based on location, abundance (very!), and habitat with lots of hollies. More research (i.e., collecting) is needed to elucidate habitats and flight times for Holly, Summer, and Spring Azures in the NC Coastal Plain.

Nectaring on Houstonia pusilla

This individual first puddled on wet leaves and then on my shoe