Tailless Scrub-Hairstreak
Common NameTailless Scrub-Hairstreak
Scientific NameStrymon cestri
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Primary Colorsbrown, white, grey
HabitatOpen scrublands, dry forests, disturbed areas, clearings, and gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas (rare stray), Mexico, Central America south to Costa Rica
Host PlantsMimosa, Acacia, Pithecellobium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas; May to November in northern parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae are typically green or brownish, feeding on the foliage. Pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the complete lack of tails on the hindwings, unlike many other hairstreaks. The mottled brown and white underside pattern with a row of small, indistinct dark spots also helps differentiate it.
Description
A small hairstreak butterfly with plain brown upperwings and a mottled underside of the hindwing, displaying shades of brown, white, and grey with a distinctive row of small dark spots.
