GRAY HAIRSTREAK

Strymon melinus

The most widespread hairstreak in the U.S. and found throughout both Alabama and Mississippi.  Light gray to brownish gray on ventral surface with black and white postmedian stripe edged with orange on the inward side.  No marks from the postmedian stripe to the base of the wings.  Dorsal surface darker gray with orange eyespot.  Males have orange on the abdomen, while females have a solid gray abdomen.  Similar species: Oak Hairstreak and White M Hairstreak

Adult male - ventral

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Slide Show

Adult - ventral

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Caterpillar


Adult female - dorsal

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Egg

Chrysalis

Caterpillar tended by ant


Adult - ventral

Caterpillar


Egg