Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 722279

Great Purple Hairstreak
Atlides halesus

Observation date: June 29, 2012
Submitted by: garnerbob
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This insect appeared to be drinking water from drops on the child's hand. The wings were closed and the back of the wings were alternating up and down so that the appendages on the back of the wings looked like a decoy. The body was partially orange and I think it had some blue on it. We have a video. The weather was sunny and the temperature was close to 100 degrees.
Status: Resident
Verified by: lorispencer
Verified date: July 29, 2012
Coordinator notes: None.
Checklist region(s): United States, Arkansas, Union County