Sloe Hairstreak
Common NameSloe Hairstreak
Scientific NameThecla betulae
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white
HabitatWoodland edges, hedgerows, scrubland, clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host PlantsPrunus spinosa, Prunus domestica, Prunus padus
Flight PeriodLate July to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant twigs in autumn and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring, feeding on buds and leaves before pupating in leaf litter or on the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white line and the bright orange submarginal band on the brown underside of the hindwing, along with the small tail. The upperside (not visible here) is dark brown with orange patches, especially in females.
Description
A medium-sized hairstreak with a dull brown to greyish-brown underside, featuring a prominent white postdiscal line across both wings and a bright orange submarginal band on the hindwing, which also bears a small tail.
