Red-crescent Scrub-Hairstreak
Common NameRed-crescent Scrub-Hairstreak
Scientific NameStrymon rufofusca
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale gray, orange, black
HabitatOpen scrublands, fields, forest edges, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona, California), Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
Host PlantsMimosa, Acacia, Senna, Lantana
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in temperate areas
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or leaves. Larvae are typically slug-shaped and feed on flowers and young fruits. Pupation occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale gray underside with a prominent row of reddish-orange crescent-shaped spots on the hindwing, often accompanied by small black spots and two delicate tails. It lacks a distinct white postmedian line.
Description
A small butterfly with pale grayish-brown undersides, featuring a distinctive row of reddish-orange crescent-shaped spots along the hindwing margin and two slender tails on each hindwing.
