The Great Purple Hairstreak is one of the most spectacular butterflies in North America, with males displaying iridescent blue-purple wings and females with a distinctive bright blue forewing base. The abdomen is brilliant red and the head orange. Despite its stunning colors it is easily missed, spending much of its time in the tops of oaks and mistletoe-infested trees. The iridescent blue structural coloration dazzles in sunlight.
Best time to see a Great Purple Hairstreak
The best time to see a Great Purple Hairstreak is March–September, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 9,390 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Great Purple Hairstreak? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Great Purple Hairstreak sightings near you
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