Lantana Scrub-Hairstreak
Common NameLantana Scrub-Hairstreak
Scientific NameStrymon bazilides
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsgray, brown, white, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrublands, gardens, disturbed areas, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas (USA), Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Host PlantsLantana camara, Croton, Malvaviscus, Sida, Waltheria
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in temperate areas.
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant buds or leaves. Larvae are slug-like and feed on flowers and fruits. Pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the distinctive reddish-brown patch on the hindwing underside, bordered by white, and the overall grayish-brown ground color with subtle white streaks. It lacks prominent tails.
Description
A small butterfly with grayish-brown undersides, characterized by a prominent reddish-brown patch on the hindwing, bordered by white lines, and a small dark spot near the hindwing margin.
