Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Question: What is Colorado’s state insect?

Answer: The Colorado hairstreak butterfly (Hypaurotis crysalus) was named Colorado’s official state insect in 1996, thanks in large part to the efforts of fourth-graders from Wheeling Elementary in Aurora. The butterfly is known for its distinctive, dark purple coloration and the hair-like “tails” extending from its hindwings.