Hackberry Emperor is common in moist spots where its main host plant, Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata) is found. Also uses Common Hackberry (C. occidentalis) and Dwarf Hackberry (C. tenuifolia).

Hackberries often perch in strange places, such as here on the side of my house.

Durham, NC 7/27/10.

Another one perched on the side of my house, sheltering during a rain storm.

Durham, NC 8/19/12.

Charismatic and "friendly", often landing on people to lap up the salts in sweat. This one is just slightly worn. Durham Co., NC 8/16/03.

A butterfly getting friendly with a butterflier.

Durham Co., NC 8/16/03.

Salt - yum! I've had Hackberries hitch a ride on me for up to half an hour.

Durham Co., NC 8/16/03.

Going for a ride on my truck. Orange Co., NC 5/19/04.

Hackberry Emperors in south Texas are quite different and belong to a different subspecies, Asterocampa celtis antonia. They have been previously been considered a separate species, the Empress Antonia (Asterocampa antonia).

Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park, Hidalgo Co., TX 6/6/04.

Durham Co., NC 8/23/09.