Green Hairstreak
Callophrys rubiThe Green Hairstreak is the UK’s only green butterfly, a tiny emerald-like species that is easy to miss despite its vivid colouring. They spend much of their time perched with wings closed, blending into shrubs such as Hawthorn. Males are surprisingly territorial, engaging in energetic aerial skirmishes to defend their patch. Found across much of the UK in habitats from heathlands to woodland edges, they are widespread but rarely seen due to their excellent camouflage.
The only truly green butterfly
Bright green but tiny in stature, these butterflies are surprisingly easy to overlook. Sparkling like an emerald if you catch it in the right light, the Green Hairstreak is actually the only green butterfly in the UK.
This gleaming jewel spends much of its time perching on its favourite shrub – usually Hawthorn – with its wings held closed to show off its vivid underside.
But don’t let these sweet appearances fool you – Green Hairstreaks are more than willing to get their wings dirty, with the territorial males engaging in dogfights with rivals to chase them off their patch.
Curiously, when pupating, they’re capable of making a squeaking noise to mimic the sound made by ants – although scientists don’t know the exact reason why, they think it could be to help summon ants for protection.
Their caterpillars eat all sorts, feasting on a wide range of vegetation, from Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil and Gorse, to Bilberry, Bramble and Dogwood.
Green Hairstreaks aren’t very picky with where they call home. They are widespread around much of the UK and can be found in lots of different habitats, from woodland rides, heathland and bogs, to old quarries and scrubby grasslands. But to spot one, you’ll have to get out into the wild. They’re not one for visiting gardens and, even if they did, you’d need eagle eyes to spot them amongst the leaves and foliage.
Vibes
Each butterfly is scored out of 100 across a set of traits, from how bold and visible it is to how far it travels or how particular it is about where it lives. These scores compare each species with the other butterflies in Britain, helping you see their differences at a glance. Here’s what makes the Green Hairstreak special.
Bright colours, bold patterns, and a love of the spotlight. Some butterflies just can’t help showing off.
Fast, or throwing some seriously impressive moves, these butterflies are in a flutter.
Always on guard, ready to hide or defend - these butterflies have self-preservation down to an art.
It’s ok to be a little… well, weird. These butterflies have been certified with the freak factor.
Like Goldilocks, everything has to be just right for these perfectionists.
Hard to spot and even harder to forget, these butterflies are a true one of a kind.
Bold, curious, and ready to explore, these brave butterflies live for the thrill and aren’t afraid to travel.
Weather-resistant, battle-hardened, and built to survive, these butterflies know how to take it on the wing.
The Green Hairstreak is the UK’s only green butterfly, so well camouflaged it often goes unnoticed even when perched in plain sight.
Test your knowledge
What makes the Green Hairstreak unique among UK butterflies?Whilst some come close with bright yellow hues, the Green Hairstreak is the only butterfly species in the UK that is truly green.
Does the Green Hairstreak get your vote?