The Grey Hairstreak is a Tiny, Colorful Butterfly
There are several types of hairstreaks that are native to this area, but by far the most common one is the grey hairstreak (Strymon melinus). It’s a small (only about 1 inch wing span), grey butterfly that tends to flit about from place to place in quick, short flights. I see them routinely on my hikes and in my yard. They seem to be especially prevalent when the blackjacks are blooming. This one kept flying around in front of me one afternoon when I was out following a gulf fritillary. When that butterfly took off, I focused my attentions on the hairstreak for a bit.
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