|
|
|
| Strymon melinus franki Field, 1938 |
| Status: As a resident, it is widespread, but rarely common. |
| Flight Period(s): Multiple broods, flying from 15 April – 28 October. |
| Range: The Gray Hairstreak inhabits all of North America south of southern Canada, and can be found into northern South America. It occurs statewide in Nebraska. |
| Larval Hostplant(s): As befits a butterfly with a wide distribution, larvae of this species will feed on the flowers of a wide variety of plants in over 25 families. However in most of its range (and in our area) the hostplants are primarily legumes. Legume hostplants occuring in Nebraska include members of the following genera: Leadplant and False Indigo (Amorpha), Hog Peanut (Amphicarpa), Milkvetches (Astragalus), Tickclovers (Desmodium), Wild Licorice (Glycyrrhiza), Bush Clover (Lespedeza), Lupines (Lupinus), Alfalfa and Medick (Medicago), Sweet Clovers (Melilotus), Clovers (Trifolium), and Vetches (Vicia). |
| Overwinter: As a pupa |
| Commentary/Habitat: This adaptable butterly is often one of the first to fly in the spring. Flying thoughout the year in multiple broods and utilizing various hostplants, it can be encountered anytime well into autumn in a variety of habitats. It has been found in riparian areas, prairies, alfalfa fields, and ditches. By utilizing ornamental legumes, the Gray Hairstreak often establishs a presence in urban yards as well. |
| Similar Species: None |
|
