Distribution of Xami Hairstreak (Callophrys xami) in southern Texas, US

The native distribution of the butterfly Xami Hairstreak (Callophrys xami) ranges from Central America north to Mexico and more recently has expanded into the southern extremity of the USA. In the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) of Texas, where populations have already become established, it is considered a rare species. We characterized the ecological requirements of Callophrys xami based on 19 climatic variables in order to understand the range expansion of the species from its native range to the LRGV. We also analyzed the human impacts to the areas in the LRGV were the species occurs. Our findings show that the climatic requirements of the species are met in the LRGV; however, the vicinity where the butterfly occurs in the LRGV has been impacted on a medium to high level.