Arizona Hairstreak
Common NameArizona Hairstreak
Scientific NameErora arizonensis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgreen, orange, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, canyons, chaparral
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, Mexico
Host PlantsQuercus arizonica, Quercus spp.
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on oak leaves. Larvae feed on oak foliage, and pupae typically overwinter. The species produces multiple broods annually.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the vibrant teal-green underside with distinct orange spots and fringe, and the absence of tails, which differentiates it from many other hairstreak species.
Description
This small butterfly displays a striking teal-green underside adorned with scattered small orange spots and an orange fringe along the wing margins. Its upperside is a plain dark brown.
