Sophocles Hairstreak
Common NameSophocles Hairstreak
Scientific NameOstrinotes sophocles
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorspale grey, white, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, and parts of South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador)
Host Plantsvarious tropical trees and shrubs, possibly Fabaceae species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, slug-shaped larva, chrysalis, and adult. Larvae feed on host plant leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale greyish-white underside with subtle wavy markings, the prominent orange and black tornal spot, and the presence of a delicate tail on the hindwing.
Description
A small hairstreak butterfly with a pale greyish-white underside, featuring faint, wavy darker lines across both wings and a small orange spot with a black center near the tornus of the hindwing, which also bears a short tail.
