The Moth... in Camouflage Fatigues
Gray or Common Hairstreak Moth ~ Strymon melinus
Color: Gray or gray-brown top (when the wings are open) with a bright orange patch on the lower bottom pair of wings, close to the outer angle. It's greenish gray on the underside with two irregular parallel bands of white and black. Slate gray on the outer edge and an orange patch on the other edge of the lower pair of wings.
Size: 1 to 1.5 inches between wing tips.
Habitat: North America's most widespread butterfly species. Especially fond of open spaces or woods with open forest floors.
Flights (broods): 3 broods from April to early October.
Host Plants: Cottons, legumes, oaks, mints and many others.
Nectar Sources: Many wild and cultivated species including hibiscus.
Special Note: The caterpillar is also called Cotton Borer, as it is a pest on cotton crops. Remember that cotton is a hibiscus relative, so the Hairstreak Moth might damage your hibiscus plants also.
Common Sulphur Colias philodice butterfly with only the wings showing as miscolored petals.