Male underside. Taken at Bernwood Forest, Bucks, on July 4th 2019. (© David Hastings)
(1/320th sec at f14)

Female. Taken at Whitecross Green Wood, Oxon., on July 28th 2013. (© David Hastings)
(1/250th sec at f13)

Description

Family: Theclinae

Wing span: 32 - 39 mm

The Purple Hairstreak is the commonest British hairstreak. It has silvery-grey under surfaces, with a dark-edged streak on both wings. The hindwing has a black-centered orange spot near the slender tail. Unlike other hairstreaks it will expose its upper surfaces when settled.

It is commonest in the southern half of England and Wales. It has expanded its range further north in recent years.

Its preferred habitat is woodland where there are large numbers of oaks.

Adults emerge in July and may be seen into September, with a peak at the end of July and early August. There is one brood each year. The ovum is the overwintering stage.

Larval foodplants are Sessile Oak, English Oak, Turkey Oak and Holm Oak.

Adults feed primarily on aphid honeydew.

Purple Hairstreaks spend much of their lives in the canopy of trees, mainly Oaks, but also Ash and Sycamore. They will come down to ground level to obtain fluids.

Least Concern

Earliest UK sighting: 22nd June ; Latest UK sighting: 23rd August

Sightings