Gray Hairstreak

Strymon melinus

The Gray Hairstreak is one of the most widespread butterflies in the continental United States, but is uncommon in Wisconsin. In Butterflies of Illinois, Bouseman and Sternburg consider it rare and uncommon in northern Illinois, “where it may not survive the winter.” This certainly seems to be the case in Wisconsin, where the Gray Hairstreak seems to show up only occasionally, and may form a temporary colony if the push northward occurs early enough in the year.

Identifying characteristics

Below, the Gray Hairstreak has a very gray background color, two orange spots capped with black on the hindwing, and a postmedian line on the hindwing that is tri-colored, with red, black, and white bands from the inside to the outside of the wing. Although other Hairstreaks in Wisconsin rarely land with their wings open, the Gray Hairstreak is an exception and will often be seen with its wings spread.

Similar species

None in Wisconsin.

Habitat

Found in a large variety of open habitats, including open weedy fields.

Flight

This species has been found in late April and into October in Michigan. Individuals that enter Wisconsin early in the year may form a temporary colony and have a second brood. It is not likely that this generation can survive the Wisconsin winter.

Abundance

Uncommon, but could be found almost anywhere in the State.

Early Gray Hairstreak Sightings

Date	County	Reported by
May 9, 2012	Marquette	Dan Sonnenberg
May 13, 2012	Waushara	Lois Ballard
May 13, 2012	Lafayette	Jim Otto
May 15, 2012	La Crosse	Armund Bartz
May 15, 2012	La Crosse	Daniel Jackson

Locations