Photo by Will Kerling at LTSP, April 30.
Edwards’ azure, Celastrina ladon, found by Will Kerling on April 30 is the 66th species he has documented for Lizard Tail Swamp Preserve. At least three individuals were present that day.
It’s a tough species to distinguish from holly azure, C. idella, and from the spring form of summer azure, C. neglecta, but Will’s ID has been confirmed by David Wright.
Edwards’ host plant is flowering dogwood, which is more common in the southwest corner of the state than in Cape May County or northward in the Pine Barrens. Edwards’ is also (apparently?) more numerous in our southwestern corner.
Identification remains a challenge wherever you go in southern NJ– at least for many of us.
Congratulations to Will on his exciting and very tough find!
jc