Early Hairstreak
Common NameEarly Hairstreak
Scientific NameErora laeta
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgreen, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, especially near oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, primarily Appalachian Mountains and parts of Canada
Host Plantsoak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodLate April to early June
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the young leaves of oak trees. Larvae feed on oak foliage, and pupae overwinter, emerging as adults in early spring.
Identification TipsLook for the bright green underside with a prominent row of orange spots and an orange marginal line on the hindwing. Unlike many hairstreaks, it lacks tails on its hindwings.
Description
A small hairstreak with a vibrant green underside, featuring a submarginal row of distinct orange spots and an orange border on the hindwings. The upperside is typically dark brown with iridescent blue scaling.
