Edward’s HS larva tended by Lasius alienus. Photo: David Wagner
A few weeks ago we collected Edward’s Hairstreak larvae at night on scrub oak being tended by ants. We collected a few caterpillars to rear through to adulthood and a few of their ant attendants also. According to Aaron Ellison, senior research fellow at Harvard Forest, they are Lasius alienus. Thanks to Aaron for the identification and thanks to Dr. Wagner for the superb image!
Oak Hairstreak Study 