Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1289870

Gray Hairstreak
Strymon melinus

Observation date: May 03, 2021
Submitted by: JudyLY
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Just after parking I noticed a very small butterfly fly around and then land. It just stayed put for several minutes and never fully opened its wings while I was watching. Since we had just begun our outing and had limited time, I eventually left after getting 3 photos. The butterfly seemed a pale gray, almost white with its wings closed, although I could see traces of orange on the barely opened wings. My photos, although not super clear do show the black and white stripes on the antennae ending in black clubs with orange tips.
Status: Resident
Verified by: stevecary
Verified date: May 09, 2021
Coordinator notes: Judy, I see you successfully uploaded multiple photos! I happy to confirm Gray Hairstreak for you.
Checklist region(s): United States, New Mexico, Doña Ana County