Many of the hairstreaks are very inconspicuous butterflies, and most species are found in woods, or along woodland edges and hedges. They can be recognized by their short "tails" on the rear edge of the hindwings. The uppersides the wings are dark-coloured, but rarely seen at rest. It is on the undersides that most of the characteristics useful for identifying hairstreaks are found. (N. quercus 01)

They include the pale, thin line, across each wing that is found in most species, from where they get their name. The caterpillars often feed on the buds and the leaves of trees and bushes.

Examples:
Brown Hairstreak (Thecla betulae),
Ilex Hairstreak (Satyrium ilicis),
Purple Hairstreak (Neozephyrus quercus),
Green Hairstreak (013.MOV, Callophrys rubi ).