Ruddy Hairstreak
Common NameRuddy Hairstreak
Scientific NameElectrostrymon melinus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorstan, orange, black, blue
HabitatMeadows, fields, gardens, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to Central America)
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, mallow, beans, cotton, hops
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like and feed on a wide variety of host plants. Pupae are typically brown and mottled, often found near the host plant. The species has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of the dull gray-brown underside, the prominent orange-red band bordered by black, the black spot with blue scales, and the short, delicate tails on the hindwings.
Description
A small butterfly with dull grayish-brown undersides, featuring a distinctive orange and black band with a blue-capped black spot near the hindwing margin and a short tail.
