Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)

Member of Family: Lycaenidae   

In Ontario, this species seems to exist as both a resident (northern) population and an immigrant (southern) population.  The larvae of the northern population appear to feed largely on Sweetfern, while the southern population's larvae feed on a number of plants ( legumes ).  The adults of the two populations are visually indistinguishable.  Further research is required to determine if they are separate species.

To see where this butterfly has been reported, visit:  The Ontario Butterfly Atlas Online

For more info on this species, visit the Butterflies of Canada