Juniper Hairstreak Callophrys gryneus

A butterfly that is variable across the US in various subpopulations. The ones in Arkansas are always this dark mint green with silver bars. This fresh individual shows the extensive silvering on the hindwing. They are never far from a cedar tree, though they do sometimes pop over to nearby flowers for nectar. This bitterweed, Helenium amarum, was within ten yards of a cedar row in a park. Unmistakable butterfly in the east. And never common. There are several green hairstreaks in the west and Texas.

Another individual shows the variation. Much less intense greens here with some blue tones in the hindwing. Muted reds.

Spring individual with even more color distribution.