Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)

This is the most common hairstreak in Texas. You will see it everywhere: fields, flower gardens, in your backyard, and in the countryside. Still, it’s one of my favorites. At this point it is like an old friend.

Its coloring can range from bright white to gray on the underside. It rarely sits with its wings open, so glimpses of the dark gray upperside happen infrequently.

There are other hairstreaks that are similar, but if you are unsure, you’re probably looking at one of these.