About Green Hairstreak
A small butterfly with plain brown uppersides but stunning iridescent green undersides. It always rests with wings closed showing only the green underside.
Did You Know?
It is the only green butterfly in Britain and its color comes from photonic crystals in the wing scales not pigment.
How to Identify Green Hairstreak
Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Lycaenidae. Adults typically measure Wingspan 26-34mm.
Green Hairstreak Habitat
Green Hairstreak is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Green Hairstreak Diet and Feeding
Green Hairstreak is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Green Hairstreak Found?
Green Hairstreak can be found in Europe, Asia, Africa, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Green Hairstreak can be found
Is Green Hairstreak Dangerous?
Green Hairstreak is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Green Hairstreak Role in Nature
Green Hairstreak is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Hairstreak
What does Green Hairstreak look like?
The Green Hairstreak typically measures Wingspan 26-34mm.
Where is Green Hairstreak found?
The Green Hairstreak is found in Europe, Asia, Africa and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Green Hairstreak eat?
The Green Hairstreak feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Green Hairstreak dangerous to humans?
The Green Hairstreak is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Green Hairstreak?
It is the only green butterfly in Britain and its color comes from photonic crystals in the wing scales not pigment.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/green-hairstreak
MLA:
"Green Hairstreak." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/green-hairstreak.