Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi)

OTHER NAMES: N/A
Latin Etymology: Callophrys (Beautiful eyebrows) rubi ("bramble")

Adult Green Hairstreak (subspecies C. r. rubi) at Cliffe Pools, Kent - March 2014

Featured Subspecies: Callophyys rubi rubi

Length: ?  /  Wingspan: 28mm
UK Status: Least Concern / IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Green Hairstreak is a very attractive butterfly, most obviously distinct from the fact that its underwings are a vivid green.  It is found on Bird's foot trefoil but will rest upon small shrubs to sun itself, such as small hawthorn bushes.  It never opens its wings while resting as the green colour is part of its camoflage.

Related Species:
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Lycaenidae
Genus: Callophrys 
SUBSPECIES: C. r. rubi, C. r. fervida, C. r. borealis, C. r. sibirica

- Sighting Locations -

UNITED KINGDOM - A localised resident

 - Seen in Geddington, Cliffe Pools and Brigstock, 

Further Notes:  BirdForum Opus, IUCN Red List, RSPB, Wikipedia, Xeno-canto