Juniper Hairstreak vs Red-tailed Flesh Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Juniper Hairstreak Red-tailed Flesh Fly
Scientific Name Callophrys gryneus Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis
Order Lepidoptera Diptera
Family Lycaenidae Sarcophagidae
Size 22-30 mm wingspan 10-14 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Herbivores Dung Feeders
Regions Eastern and central United States wherever red cedar grows Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Juniper Hairstreak

A small green hairstreak butterfly with intricate white line patterns on its hindwing underside. Its bright green underside provides camouflage among cedar foliage.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillar perfectly matches the green of cedar foliage and is nearly impossible to spot among the needles.

Red-tailed Flesh Fly

A large gray flesh fly with a distinctive red-tipped abdomen. It deposits live larvae on meat, wounds, and feces.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most flies, females give birth to live larvae rather than laying eggs.