Colorado Hairstreak (Hypaurotis crysalus)
The Colorado Hairstreak is a purple butterfly found mostly in the oak scrublands between mid-June and August, and is the only species belonging to the genus Hypaurotis.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Lycaenidae
- Genus: Hypaurotis
- Scientific Name: Hypaurotis crysalus
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The mature larva is green in color with a segmented body that tapers towards both ends. Fine hair-like structures are present all over the body.
Pupa
The chrysalis is light brown with dark, haphazard spots. A streak in purple can also be seen on both sides of the body.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism:
Color and Appearance: When the wings are open, the upperside exhibits a dark purple to violet coloration along with a wide dark to black border. Both the wings bear orange spots around the lower outer corner. When the wings are closed, the lower side shows a pale to dark gray coloration with dark and white markings. There is also an orange patch by the margin of each forewing, as also an orange spot bearing a black spot at the center near the tail. Each of the hindwings bear a thin hairlike tail.
Average wingspan: 2.5-3.3 inches
Flight pattern: Average
Eggs
White in color, and laid one at a time on host plant leaves
Quick Facts | |
| Distribution | Mostly found in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and the Colorado Plateau states |
| Habitat | Typically found in the oak scrublands |
| Lifespan of adults | Around 2 weeks |
| Host plants | Prefers gambel oak (Quercus gambelii) |
| Adult diet | Adults prefer tree sap and probably honeydew secreted by other insects rather than from flowers |
Did You Know?
The Colorado hairstreak is the state insect of Colorado since 1996.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Lycaenidae
- Genus: Hypaurotis
- Scientific Name: Hypaurotis crysalus
Dr. James Watuwa on July 10, 2019.
Butterfly Team 
