African Babul Blue
Common NameAfrican Babul Blue
Scientific NameAzanus jesous
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorspale brown, grey, black, blue
HabitatSavannas, open woodlands, dry scrubland, often near acacia trees
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, Arabian Peninsula, Middle East, India, Sri Lanka
Host PlantsVachellia species, Senegalia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the host plant. Larvae feed on the leaves, flowers, and young pods of *Vachellia* and *Senegalia* species, often associating with ants (myrmecophilous). Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsLook for the small size, the pale greyish-brown underside with a characteristic pattern of black spots ringed with white, and fine white wavy lines. The specific arrangement of the post-discal spots on the hindwing is a key feature.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale greyish-brown underside, featuring a distinctive pattern of black spots and fine white wavy lines across both forewings and hindwings. The upperside (not visible) is typically iridescent blue in males and duller brown in females.
