Telea Hairstreak
Common NameTelea Hairstreak
Scientific NameChlorostrymon telea
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsgreen, white, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America
Host PlantsAcacia farnesiana, Acacia angustissima
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; March to November in temperate parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae are slug-like and feed on young leaves and flowers. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive bright green underside, small size, and the combination of a faint white postmedian line and a black spot on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with vibrant green undersides, a thin white fringe along the wing margins, and a small black spot on the hindwing near the tornus.
