Description

The Acadian Hairstreak (Satyrium acadica) is a larger hairstreak with grayish wings, black spots on the interior of the hindwing, orange spots near the edge, and a large blue spot near the tails. They are typically found in wetlands, near willows which are their preferred larval host. The adults can be found swarming swamp milkweed.

Range

Statewide near wetlands. I’ve seen thousands at Carlos Avery WMA lower unit while walking the gravel roads.

Similar Species

Coral Hairstreak is similar but doesn’t have a tail, is generally darker brown, doesn’t have a blue spot at the base of the hindwing, and is more at home in prairie environments. Other gray hairstreaks are smaller and don’t have the row of orange spots on the edge of the hindwing.

Host Plants

Willow Species (Salix spp.)

Flight

July