Frivaldszky's Hairstreak
Common NameFrivaldszky's Hairstreak
Scientific NameAhlbergia frivaldszkyi
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsdark brown, light brown, white
HabitatForest clearings, scrubland, rocky slopes, and dry grasslands, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Europe (Balkans), Turkey, Caucasus, Central Asia, Siberia, and Mongolia.
Host PlantsSpiraea chamaedryfolia, Spiraea hypericifolia, Cotoneaster
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Eggs are laid on the buds or leaves of host plants, and the larvae feed on the foliage before pupating near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its small size, the dark brown underside with subtle whitish markings, and the characteristic scalloped hindwing margin. Males also exhibit a metallic green sheen on the upperside, which is not visible when the wings are closed.
Description
A small butterfly with a dark, hairy body and antennae tipped with orange. The underside of the wings is dark brown with faint, irregular whitish streaks and a distinctly scalloped hindwing margin.
