Provence Hairstreak
Common NameProvence Hairstreak
Scientific NameTomares ballus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgreen, orange, brown, black
HabitatDry, stony grasslands, garrigue, open scrubland, calcareous soils
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe (Iberian Peninsula, Southern France, Italy), North Africa
Host PlantsAstragalus lusitanicus, Astragalus incanus, Medicago, Onobrychis
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the flowers or buds of host plants. Larvae feed on the flowers and seeds, and pupation occurs underground or at the base of the host plant, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsThe bright green hairy body, combined with the orange hindwing underside marked with a row of prominent black spots, makes this species unmistakable among European butterflies.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by its vibrant green hairy body and the striking orange patch with black spots on the underside of its hindwings, contrasting with duller brown forewings.
