Western Green Hairstreak
(Callophrys affinis homoperplexa)
Hairstreaks and Elfins
Appearance: Tailless. Below, forewing is green with earthy brown overtones on lower half; underside of hindwing is mostly green. Both wings above are a dull orange-brown to grayish color.
Wingspan: Small; 3/4 to 1 1/8 inches.
Habitat: Clearings in pine forests and along trails and roads usually close to food source; higher plains, foothills, montane.
Flight Times: April to July; one brood.
Larval Foodplant: Various buckwheats, like sulphur flower; Ceanothus species.
Did You Know…
One of two small, mostly green hairstreaks seen in this area, but flying much later than the White-lined Green Hairstreak and not likely to be seen flying together. Males perch on hilltops or in gulches to find females. Eggs are laid singly on flower buds of host plants. Caterpillars feed on flowers and young fruits, and occasionally leaves. Chrysalis overwinters in our area.
