Green Hairstreak Callophrys rubi

Sexes appear similar.
Sexes appear similar.
No other butterfly has a green metallic appearance.
No other butterfly has a green metallic appearance.
Proof that they are often found near chalk.
Proof that they are often found near chalk.
Female in the act of laying. (The number of white spots on the hindwing of both sexes is variable).
Female in the act of laying. (The number of white spots on the hindwing of both sexes is variable).
 
Information

Red List status: Least Concern
NERC Act S41: Not listed
Local status: Uncommon.
Found in discrete colonies, primarily on the chalk and in Marston Vale.
Usually seen in small numbers, but dozens or more can sometimes be found.
Possibly under-recorded (e.g. an unknown colony in TL06 was recently found).
Size: Small.
Larval foodplant: Usually Common Bird's-foot-trefoil and Common Rock-rose.
No. of broods: One.
Flight time(s): Mid April to mid June.
Average first date: 16th April
Average last date: 16th June
Winter: Pupa
Habits: Spends much of the day perched on hawthorn. Can be found by gently pulling on a branch to shake the bush. The butterfly may then briefly fly.
As it never settles with wings open, it warms itself by tilting one underside to be at right-angles to the sun, then turns around to warm the other.
Habitats: Likes areas of light hawthorn scrub on chalk downland and in the brick clay pits.
Distribution: