California Hairstreak

family Lycaenidae: Hairstreaks Behr's Hairstreak Brown Elfin Golden Hairstreak Gray Hairstreak Hedgerow Hairstreak Juniper Hairstreak Sheridan's Hairstreak More Hairstreak Butterflies Butterfly Pictures and Information

The California Hairstreak (Satyrium californica) can be found throughout the West in open areas near forests and stream sides.

The top picture shows a side view highlighting two field identification clues. The top wing has slight orange marks along the border. The bottom wing has orange spots that book-end a black spot by the tail.

Unlike many hairstreak species, the wings also have black dots rather than a medial line.

© 2003 Patricia A. Michaels