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| Species of the Month - May 2011 Green Hairstreak Callophrys rubi The Green Hairstreak butterfly is only on the wing for a short time; most sightings are in May. It likes open country with some scrubby trees, especially birch. It is well camouflaged against the leaves when at rest, but the butterflies are usually very active in fine weather, and sometimes occur in large numbers. The
uppersides of the wings are brown and the undersides green. At
rest you only see the undersides, in flight you see both. It's
very difficult to get a photo of the upperside. Google Images
doesn't bring up any live ones with wings open, but
this
page has pinned specimens showing both sides.
More info on http://www.ukbutterflies.co.uk/species.php?species=rubi The association with ants (under "Pupa") is interesting. The
species is declining nationally so it is worth building up a picture of
what kind of habitats they like in this area, and where their colonies
are found. By filling in this form you agree that the information contained in this form may be collated and disseminated manually or electronically for environmental decision-making, education, research and other public benefit uses in accordance with the LNHG data access policy. Your email address will not form part of the record and will not be passed on to anyone.
Carl Farmer
Sightings so far Catherine MacLeod saw some in Applecross on 4 May. Ian Strachan saw lots at Loch Eil around 11-12 May.
31 May - no reports from
Argyll this month. The second half of the month has been very
windy and wet so not much chance of seeing them.
Apr 2011
- Townhall Clock
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