Oak Hairstreak
Common NameOak Hairstreak
Scientific NameSatyrium quercus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, parks, gardens, often associated with oak trees
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia Minor
Host PlantsQuercus robur, Quercus petraea, Quercus ilex, Quercus cerris
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on oak twigs and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring to feed on oak buds and young leaves, pupating in leaf litter or crevices.
Identification TipsLook for the dull brown wings with a prominent white wavy line and an orange patch on the hindwing underside, along with two short tails. Often found high in oak canopies.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with a dull brown upperside. The underside is brown with a distinctive white postmedian line, an orange submarginal band on the hindwing, and two short tails.
