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ODNR Division of Wildlife - Fishing - Trout Stockings
ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Coral Hairstreak

 Coral Hairstreak


Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery
Hairstreaks get their name from "hair-like" tails that extend from their hindwings. An "eye spot" of red or blue usually accompanies the tails. These tails are thought to function as a protective device that fools predators into thinking it is the antennae or head of the butterfly. The coral hairstreak is our only "hairstreak" without the tail-like projection and is closely related to the banded hairstreak.

Coral Hairstreak
Satyrium titus

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: June and July

• Wings: 1 - 1.5 inches

Description
The wings are brown above, usually with red spots along the margins. The male has dark, pointed, triangular wings and the female has rounded wings.

Habitat and Habits
The coral hairstreak inhabits woodland edges, fields, and roadsides. However, it is not as limited to forested areas as are the other hairstreaks. It can be found statewide and is often seen nectaring on orange butterflyweed with Edward's hairstreaks.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of the coral hairstreak feed on wild cherry and wild plum.