Description

The Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus) is a small, widespread butterfly with gray wings, an orange spot near the tail, and a single thin white line crossing the wings, often found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, fields, and roadsides, throughout North and Central America. It’s the only hairstreak in Minnesota that regularly rests with wings open.

Range

Colonizes the state from the south each year sometimes venturing as far north as the North Shore. But it is not common.

Similar Species

None

Host Plants

Cotton (Gossypium spp.), Beans (Phaseolus spp.), Pea (Pisum sativum), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Mallows (Malva spp.), Soybean (Glycine max)

Flight

Colonizes Minnesota from the south each year. Can be found from June until frost.