In my late summer Hairstreak triology the White-letter Hairstreak (Satyrium w-album) is number two to be introduced. This species has an incredible set of details. However, the fragility of this sensitive butterfly often makes it impossible to get all these details on a decent photo. Why this? Because the details are easily “worn off”.
The White-letter Hairstreak has been the most common species of Hairstreaks while I was out photographing them. The habitat was a success, and this butterfly loves to visit flowers. While soaking there’s practically no rush to shoot them.
Another thing worth being mentioned: White-letter Hairstreaks don’t show the upper side of their wings. The only way is to catch it flying, like with e.g. the Common Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni). I got one shot, not really clear or focused, where the main characteristics of the upper side are visible (see below).
As mentioned earlier it’s a very fragile butterfly. Turned out, the challenge was not to locate a butterfly but to spot an individual that’s in good shape. Here’s the footage I got over several days. Like in case with the Brown Hairstreak (Thecla betulae), which I introduced earlier, all photos were made on the same spot in Espoo, Finland.
