Melissa Arctic

Oeneis melissa is resident of northern Canada, and ranges south into the United States along the Rocky Mountains (Scott 1986). Habitats are arctic/alpine zone dry tundra, especially ridgetops and rocky places. Host plants are sedges (Cyperaceae): Carex bigelowii, C. rupestris. Eggs are laid on or near the host plant. This species is biennial; individuals overwinter as young larvae (second or third instar) the first winter, and as mature larvae the second winter. There is one flight each year with the approximate flight time mostly July 1-July 31 in the more southern and low altitude parts of the range, and June 15- July 31 in the arctic (Scott 1986).

Adults feed on flower nectar, but rarely. Males both perch and patrol for females (Scott, 1986).