Wattle Blue
Common NameWattle Blue
Scientific NameTheclinesthes miskini
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, gardens, coastal areas, urban parks
Geographic RangeEastern and southern Australia
Host PlantsAcacia spp. (wattles)
Flight PeriodThroughout the year in warmer regions, spring to autumn in cooler areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the flower buds or young leaves of various Wattle (Acacia) species. Larvae feed on the host plant and are often associated with ants. Pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive greyish underside with fine white wavy lines, and the characteristic orange-ringed black spot on the hindwing. Males have iridescent blue uppersides.
Description
A small butterfly with a greyish-brown underside, intricately patterned with wavy white lines and a prominent orange-ringed black spot near the hindwing tornus.
