Lunulate Hairtail
Common NameLunulate Hairtail
Scientific NameAnthene lunulata
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, orange, black
HabitatSavanna, open woodlands, scrub, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa, East Africa
Host PlantsAcacia, Albizia, Dichrostachys, Elephantorrhiza, Xylia
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, peaking in summer
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various leguminous trees and shrubs, often attended by ants. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the specific pattern of dark spots and lunules on the greyish-brown underside, and the prominent orange and black tornal spots with a short tail on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with a dull greyish-brown underside, marked with a series of dark spots and wavy lines, and distinctive orange and black spots with a short tail on the hindwing.
