Hypaurotis crysalus, Colorado Hairstreak Butterfly
- pollinators1
- Oct 15
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 11
The Colorado Hairstreak butterfly (Hypaurotis crysalus) became our official state insect in 1996, thanks to a campaign led by Colorado 4th graders! These beauties are dependent on Gambel Oak for their lifecycle—a native shrub found in the lower montane regions of western and southern Colorado, as well as along the Front Range. Though their wings are iridescent purple, this butterfly is well camouflaged against the bark and leaves of the oak, due to the small black and orange spots on its grayish wings when closed. Caterpillars of the Hairstreak feed solely on oak leaves in spring, while adults feed on the shrub’s sap and aphid secretions (rather than flower nectar). At the end of summer, these pollinators mate and lay eggs that overwinter on the oaks—beginning a new life cycle upon hatching the following spring.
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report! Check out pages 34-35 and 91 to discover more about the Colorado Hairstreak Butterfly!
