Green Hairstreak
Common NameGreen Hairstreak
Scientific NameCallophrys rubi
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgreen, brown
HabitatWoodlands, heathlands, grasslands, scrub, moorland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsGorse, Broom, Bird's-foot trefoil, Bramble, Heather, Bilberry
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae are green and well-camouflaged, feeding on flowers and young shoots. Pupation occurs at the base of the host plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the vibrant green undersides of the wings, which are unique among European butterflies. It lacks tails, unlike many other hairstreak species.
Description
A small butterfly easily recognized by its distinctive bright green undersides, which provide excellent camouflage among foliage. The uppersides of the wings are a plain brown.
