Striped Hairstreak (Satyrium liparops)

Description: This small butterfly is brown above and lighter brown below. It is marked below with darker, offset stripes edged with white. In the similar Banded Hairstreak, these dark
markings form a continuous band. Wingspan: 21 to 28 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Throughout the Maritimes, though not recorded from Cape Breton Island. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S3S4. NS: S2S3. PEI: S1S2.

Flight Period: Early July to late August.

Host Plant: Various shrubs and trees in the rose family (Rosaceae), such as cherries (Prunus spp.) and hawthorns (Crataegus spp.), as well as other deciduous woody plants.

Notes: Although this is the Maritimes’ most widespread hairstreak, it is rare and seldom seen in any numbers. The Striped Hairstreak is a species of forest openings and thickets as well as suburban trails and gardens. It should be looked for at flowers, especially in large patches of Milkweed (Asclepias spp.).