Winter Crane Fly vs Great Purple Hairstreak
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Winter Crane Fly | Great Purple Hairstreak |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Trichocera annulata | Atlides halesus |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Trichoceridae | Lycaenidae |
| Size | 5-10 mm | 32-50 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Detritivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America | Southern United States from California to the Atlantic coast |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Winter Crane Fly
A cold-adapted crane fly that forms mating swarms in winter even in freezing weather.
Did You Know?
It can be seen dancing in aerial swarms on sunny winter days near buildings.
Great Purple Hairstreak
The largest hairstreak in North America with brilliant iridescent blue upperside wings and a bright red-orange abdomen. Its underside is dark with metallic blue and red spots near the tails.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillars feed only on mistletoe, and females seek out this parasitic plant high in oak canopies to lay their eggs.