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.