The Green Hairstreak is easily recognisable by its bright green upper wings. Upon closer inspection, you'll notice a subtle orange crescent-shaped spot on the underside of its hind wings. This colouration serves as a form of camouflage against predators and helps the butterfly blend into its surroundings. Green Hairstreaks primarily inhabits heathlands, moorlands and open grassy areas.
Like other butterflies, the Green Hairstreak undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar to adult butterfly. The female Green Hairstreak lays her eggs on the leaves of specific host plants. Once hatched, the caterpillars feed on the leaves before eventually pupating into chrysalises. After a period of transformation, the adult butterfly emerges, ready to grace the world with its delicate beauty.
One of the intriguing aspects of the Green Hairstreak's behavior is its habit of perching with its wings closed, showcasing its vibrant green upper wings to the world only in flight. This behavior, combined with its small size and excellent camouflage, makes spotting a perched Green Hairstreak a rewarding and rare sight for nature lovers.
While the Green Hairstreak is not considered endangered, it still faces various threats, primarily due to habitat loss.
A tryst with nature #greenhairstreak
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