Juniper Hairstreak
Common NameJuniper Hairstreak
Scientific NameCallophrys gryneus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Primary Colorsgreen, reddish-brown, white
HabitatJuniper woodlands, cedar glades, open forests, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsJuniperus virginiana, Juniperus scopulorum, Juniperus communis, Juniperus horizontalis
Flight PeriodMarch to October (varies by region, typically two broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the tips of juniper needles. Larvae are green and feed on the foliage, often camouflaged. Pupae typically overwinter, sometimes attached to the host plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright green underside with a prominent, broken white line bordered by reddish-brown. The presence of small, delicate tails on the hindwings is also a key feature.
Description
A small butterfly with vibrant green undersides, featuring a broken white line edged with reddish-brown on the hindwings and forewings, and small filamentous tails on the hindwings.
