Juniper Hairstreak vs Spotted Willow Leaf Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Juniper Hairstreak Spotted Willow Leaf Beetle
Scientific Name Callophrys gryneus Chrysomela knabi
Order Lepidoptera Coleoptera
Family Lycaenidae Chrysomelidae
Size 22-30 mm wingspan 6-8 mm
Habitat Underground Mountains
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Eastern and central United States wherever red cedar grows Western North America
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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Spotted Willow Leaf Beetle

A dark metallic blue-black beetle with an oval body found on willows in western North America. Adults and larvae feed on willow foliage near mountain streams.

💡

Did You Know?

This species is adapted to high-altitude habitats and is commonly found above 2,000 meters elevation in the Rocky Mountains.