Cloudy Hairstreak
Common NameCloudy Hairstreak
Scientific NameArzecla nubilum
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, black, orange
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, South America
Host Plantslegumes (Fabaceae), Mimosa spp., clover
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, spring to fall
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically slug-shaped and may be tended by ants. Pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the small size, uniform brown underside with faint markings, the distinctive orange-ringed black eyespot on the hindwing, and the presence of slender tails. The black and white banded antennae are also characteristic.
Description
A small, dull brown butterfly with a cryptic underside, featuring a prominent orange-ringed black eyespot near the hindwing tail. Its antennae are distinctly banded black and white.
