Hairstreaks are small and rapid fliers making them difficult to identify until they land. The wing shapes of many hairstreaks include very thin tails on their hindwings. If you are able to study them while they are nectaring you may see their tiny tails move back and forth.
ID Guide: Thin Tails Butterfly Side-by-Side Comparison
Use the side-by-side photo comparison below to identify butterflies with thin tails on their hindwings. Click on the butterfly image below to see additional photos, facts, a flight range map, and the host plants they need to lay eggs and for caterpillars to eat.
