Zebra-striped Hairstreak
Common NameZebra-striped Hairstreak
Scientific NamePanthiades bathildis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador)
Host PlantsInga spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically slug-shaped and feed on leaves, sometimes attended by ants. Pupation occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the unmistakable bold black and white striped pattern on both upper and underside of the wings, combined with the bright orange patch and two slender tails on the hindwings.
Description
This small butterfly features striking black and white stripes across its wings, with a prominent orange patch on the hindwing near two delicate tails.
