Gossamer Wings: Great Purple Hairstreak Atlides halesus
| Size: | Wingspan ranges from 1.25" - 2" |
| Habitat: | Woods infested with mistletoe |
| Occurrence Level: | Rare |
| Flight Period: | Late June to late July, mid-September |
| Larval Host Plant: | Mistletoe |
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Dorchester County, MD. July 29, 2012
A fresh Great Purple Hairstreak with the beautiful iridescent blue peaking through.
Worchester County, MD. July 20, 2013
Dorchester County, MD. September 9, 2012
Dorchester County, MD. July 29, 2012
Showing off its magnificent orange abdomen.
Dorchester County, MD. July 29, 2012
A formidable sight for any potential predator. While nectaring, the Great Purple Hairstreak turns the back hind wings outward to reveal what appears to be two glowing blue eyes and a long nose! Other Hairstreaks engage in this same behavior.