the butterflies (lepidoptera) of kwazulu-natal

EDITORS

A. J. Armstrong Animal Ecologist

Conservation Planning Division Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

P.O. Box 13053 Cascades 3202, South Africa

D.G. AllanCurator of Birds

Durban Natural Science MuseumP.O. Box 4085

Durban 4000, South Africae-mail: [email protected]

EDITORIAL BOARD

L. RichardsCurator of Mammals

e-mail: [email protected]

K.A. WilliamsCurator of Entomology


SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS

Librarian Durban Natural Science Museum

P.O. Box 4085Durban 4000, South Africa


COVER IMAGE

Gold-banded Forester Euphaedra neophron

Published by the Durban Natural Science Museum

Durban Natural Science Museum Novitates 33 B U T T E R F L I E S O F K W A Z U L U - N A T A L 1

I N T R O D U C T I O N

This is a historical and personal account of the butterfly fauna of KwaZulu-Natal. The data originate from the period 1827 - 1996. The text is written in this historical context. The taxonomy and the recorded foodplants are applicable to this period but updates to the taxonomy according to Williams (2010) are given in the species accounts in square parentheses after the scientific name. For updated information on taxonomy, distribution and foodplants, the reader is referred to the South African Butterfly Conservation Assessment and its products (http://vmus.adu.org.za/), and to Kroon (1999), Vari et al. (2002) and Williams (2010).

Up until 1996, there had been no attempt to document an in-depth exposé of the butterflies of KwaZulu-Natal despite its long history of attracting many naturalists from all over the world. Due to its subtropical environment and rich biodiversity, it was dubbed a naturalist’s paradise from the earliest times of the 19th Century. From an entomological perspective little has happened to change this appellation despite much vegetation destruction to make way for sugarcane and alien tree plantations. The rich variety of nature reserves that Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW), formerly the Natal Parks Board, had the foresight to establish played no mean role in preserving this rich natural heritage. Even beyond the influence of EKZNW, the people of KwaZulu-Natal have generally proved themselves to be more wildlife-orientated than elsewhere.

A long line of notable naturalists have worked KwaZulu-Natal’s extraordinarily rich variety of habitats or veld types. KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Agriculture listed some 23 bio-resource groups in 1996. Many notable discoveries have emanated from the early research efforts of these workers. All these findings, however, lie buried in a variety of publications and the time is long overdue for these contributions to be collated in order to establish a picture of the natural riches of our “Garden Province” as it

is sometimes alluded to. This publication seeks to remedy this situation from the butterfly perspective.

This initiative had its genesis some decades ago when Dr Jason Londt, Dr Orty Bourquin and I conceived of the idea when atlassing via a computer was still in its infancy. Progress was therefore slow, rough and heir to problems that do not exist today. Rob Yeadon, a friend of the Durban Natural Science Museum took up the challenge and was among the first to generate a computer program that put distribution dots on a map, soon to be followed by many refinements of these techniques.

Beyond the value of species locality records, what is being attempted here is to encapsulate my 30 years of residence and research on the KwaZulu-Natal butterfly fauna from 1976 up to the end of the century. My years of tenure as Curator of Invertebrates at the Durban Natural Science Museum provided me with ample opportunity of doing fieldwork throughout KwaZulu-Natal. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife rendered assistance by incorporating my project on their list of formal projects and allowing me free access to all reserves. Riding on a life-long interest in butterflies, this opportunity was embraced with alacrity and could not have been more pleasurable and fulfilling. These privileges, however, also spawned a sense of obligation to all my benefactors to pass back my findings of all I recorded and learnt at first hand.

A brief historical review reveals that hardly a butterfly collector of any note has not spent time along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, particularly in the Umhlanga area just north of Durban. This was prime collecting grounds right up to the 1970s and 1980s, whereupon human pressures eroded this priceless bush and the area today is largely built-up. Pioneer collectors frequently mentioned the Bluff and Stella Bush during their ramblings, and even Pinetown harboured such rarities as Capys disjunctus, a Protea copper, and Northdene is mentioned as a locality for

THE BUTTERFLIES (LEPIDOPTERA) OF KWAZULU-NATAL:

THEIR DISTRIBUTION, ABUNDANCE,

HABITAT, FOODPLANTS, FLIGHT PERIODS

AND CONSERVATION STATUS

C L I V E D . Q U I C K E L B E R G E

Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa


This monograph covers the approximately 400 species of butterflies (Lepidoptera) that have been recorded

in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Records from museum specimens and personal sightings

by the author are included. The data originate from the period 1827 – 1996. For each species details are

provided of distribution, abundance, habitat, foodplants, flight periods and conservation status.

K E Y W O R D S : abundance, butterflies, conservation, distribution, foodplants, habitat, KwaZulu-Natal.

Durban Natural Science Museum Novitates 33B U T T E R F L I E S O F K W A Z U L U - N A T A L2

the elusive Anthene minima while Gnophodes betsimena diversa occurred in Durban forests. Among the earliest of butterfly collectors who haunted these areas were W.D. Gooch, W. Morant, M.J. McKen, Col. H.C. Harford, Col. J.H. Bowker, the Millar brothers, A.D. Harold, and E.E. Platt. Among those who came later, the most prominent was K.M. Pennington. He compiled the first and only check-list of KwaZulu-Natal’s butterflies published in the Durban Museum Novitates in 1963 and listing 358 species. This total has now been pushed up to approximately 400 in the present listing. Working contemporaneously with Pennington was another ardent collector, D.A. Swanepoel, who spent protracted periods camping in the Zululand bush and elsewhere in KwaZulu-Natal.

Upon assuming duties at the Durban Museum in 1976, I had the absorbing task of curating the butterfly collection and, of course, adding to it during field work. The extensive A.D. Millar collection was there and, although this body of butterflies yielded an invaluable insight into the condition of butterflies around the turn of the 19th century, very tragically the data on the specimens’ labels was largely lacking in essential respects such as localities and dates. A register number on the labels gave hope of the possible existence of a book wherein the lacking data might be located. A search of the Museum’s archives and the questioning of Millar family descendants, however, yielded no results. Director P.A. Clancey was of the opinion that these pioneer collectors tended to be purposely cagey in revealing locality records. Thus the value of their important historical research was greatly minimized. In the case of the A.D. Miller collection, however, it is evident from the species collected that the vast majority were obtained locally, so it can be assumed that the material does give us a good idea of the situation pertaining to butterflies in the Durban area during the early years of the 20th Century. Travel to far-flung areas in those times was not as easy as it is today. Fortunately, contemporary workers such as H. Cookson, G.F. Leigh, J.H. Bowker, E.E. Platt and Harold Millar were not so remiss in recording label details. A large body of Platt’s KwaZulu-Natal collection found its way into the Albany Museum. These specimens’ labels were far more informative and so the inadequacies of the A.D. Millar collection were largely offset. Most of the other pioneer collectors’ material found its way into the Durban Museum. Additional records of KwaZulu-Natal material have been kindly furnished by the KwaZulu-Natal, Iziko and Ditsong Museums.

Moving forward to the period when I arrived at the museum, there were some active collectors in the Durban area, viz. Derryck Whiteley and son Earle, followed soon by Ivor Migdoll and Philip Zwart. These fellows were indefatigable in their collecting activities, mostly within KwaZulu-Natal. Their large collections also eventually found their way into the museum. Most of my own collecting activities, that stretched from 1976 to the present, were confined to EKZNW protected areas, with particular attention to such interesting areas as Itala, Mkuze, Ndumo, Tembe, Kosi Bay, False Bay, Fanies Island, Dukuduku, Sibaya, Umtamvuna, etc. Virtually all the unusual and rare butterflies of KZN were turned up by one or other of these KZN-based collectors and thus it became a pressing necessity to give an account of the accumulated findings. It was essential of course to also take cognizance of the material accumulated by visiting collectors and deposited in other museums or kept as private collections. It must be stressed that this publication covers various aspects of the biology of each species and so is not just a chronicle of locality records.

Thus it was that the Durban Museum, later to be dubbed the Durban Natural Science Museum, became the repository of a number of

important Lepidoptera collections. Principal of these were amassed by the following field collectors: A. Bevis, A.D & H. Millar; G.G.C. Dickson; C.N. Barker; D. Quinn; H.C. Kenway; J.D. Handman; P.J. Rogers; L. Braack; M. Keep; I. Migdoll; J. Nagle; E.E. Platt; C.D. Quickelberge & D.E. Whiteley. This combined pool of butterfly specimens, plus other smaller donations, have given us one of the largest butterfly collections in South African museums, second only to the Ditsong (formerly Transvaal) Museum collection, and incorporating the better part of 50 000 specimens.

What amazes me about our ‘Garden Province’ is the way in which our butterfly fauna has held out against all odds. Just when it seems that we have lost some of our unusual or rare butterflies through vegetation destruction within some choice pristine bush or grassland, they subsequently turn up in other areas. Range contraction of some species has undoubtedly happened but it just seems that all our precious species are still disporting themselves in some or other nook or cranny. Except perhaps for Lepidochrysops hypopolia, I cannot think of even one species that has completely disappeared off the face of KwaZulu-Natal. Even the very vulnerable Karkloof Blue Orachrysops ariadne, which has been known from only one small locality for about 100 years and during which time it was open to all and sundry to collect to their heart’s content, still persists to this day in appreciable numbers with no demonstrated fall off in numbers. This persistence has occurred despite the Blue producing only one adult generation per year, lasting barely 3 – 4 weeks.

The Yellow-banded Twilight Brown G. b. diversa may well have disappeared from the Durban area through forest destruction but it still persists in Oribi Gorge and also the Umtamvuna Reserve where it is quite common. Since Ken Pennington’s day we all lamented the destruction of that choice bush bordering False Bay (St Lucia complex) which harboured rarities like Deudorix dariaves and D. dinomenes, plus Iolaus diametra and I. lulua, etc. All have been found elsewhere, sometimes in even larger numbers.

Enormous tracts of land, especially over a broad band of the coastal zone, have been denuded of the original vegetation to make way for sugar cane and plantations of alien trees. But KwaZulu-Natal with all its hidden valleys and riverine bush has provided refugia for our hardy insects and survive they do. I hasten to add, however, that this is not to say that this denudation is acceptable. Once habitats shrink appreciably then vulnerable species die out even before there is total destruction of the vegetation. We don’t want things to reach critical levels beyond which all recovery becomes impossible. It is better to remain on the safe side and stop all such inroads from upsetting such delicate balances of nature. The conservation theme must at all costs be lauded as never before. We are the custodians of remarkably rich species diversity. It behoves all of us never to flag in our efforts to put a brake on the pressures exerted by man’s avarice. All the money in the world cannot compensate for the loss of even one butterfly species, as has happened in Britain and elsewhere. One of the purposes of such an atlas as this is to create a milestone in time that highlights the status of each butterfly species. This serves the purpose of providing a comparative basis to refer back to when, in decades to come, we stop to take stock of how we have fared in our conservation efforts. Hopefully some species will be found to be flourishing as never before but we may become aware that some are on the decline while it’s possible that some will have become extinct. Every ten years or so we need to repeat an inventory such as this in order that we may map out the way forward with greater circumspection.


Most of what is written here was done during the period when the province currently known as ‘KwaZulu-Natal’ was still called ‘Natal’. Nevertheless, the text has been updated to reflect modern terminology in this regard. The area referred to as ‘Zululand’ here refers to the traditional region covered by this name, i.e. that part of KwaZulu-Natal lying to the north of the Tugela River (particularly when referring to the broad coastal section of this area). The province previously known as the ‘Transvaal’ has now been formerly divided into several separate provinces. The term ‘former Transvaal’ therefore has been used here in reference to the original region. The territory known as the ‘Transkei’, i.e. between the Great Kei and Umtamvuna rivers, has now been entirely and formerly incorporated into the Eastern Cape Province but the use of the term has been retained here as it refers to a very specific and well-known region within that province. Similarly, the term ‘Pondoland’ is used here in reference to the area of the Transkei north of the Umzimvubu River (with Port St Johns at its mouth).

A I M S

The aims of this monograph are:1. To provide detailed information on the distribution, ecology and biology of the butterflies of KwaZulu-Natal, as recorded up to 1996; 2. To stimulate interest in, and provide a base for, future research on the rich biodiversity of the province’s butterflies;3. To highlight the gaps in our knowledge and thus give some direction to future research; and 4. To provide a base to guide the formulation for future conservation initiatives.

C L A S S I F I C A T I O N

The higher classification used here is in line with most earlier treatments which regard the Satyridae, Acraeidae, Danaidae, etc. as full families and are not downgraded to subfamilies as is the tendency today. They will be united, however, at the higher level of superfamily.

At the lower levels of species and genera, I tend to the side of lumping as opposed to splitting in a few taxa. My problem with some splitting is that it sometimes obscures relationships in closely allied taxa especially when new generic names are introduced. I do not regard juggling with names as critical, however, as taxonomy will always have a measure of subjectivity since the basis of disagreement amounts to judgements made on the relative importance of anatomical features. Due to a lack of any significant fossil record of butterflies, there exists no evidence as to which anatomical characters are primitive and which are derived. Finally, for the purposes of this record, taxonomic correctness is of no consequence as long as the species concerned are recognizable using the main body of literature. The degree of evolutionary change in the past is imperfectly known, leaving the whole question speculative and of little scientific importance. The acid test of time invariably eliminates through disuse all spurious taxonomic arrangements of living organisms that do not rest comfortably on the facts as presented to us in nature.

The systematic arrangements and taxonomy used in this publication largely follow the one employed by Carcasson in the extensive treatise Carcasson’s African Butterflies (Ackery et al.

1995). This checklist or catalogue was very welcome as it brought together for the first time a professionally backed publication dealing comprehensively with all the African butterfly taxa. For taxonomic updates, the reader is referred to Vari et al. (2002) and Williams (2010). Updated scientific binomials, in accordance with Williams (2010), are indicated in square parentheses in the species accounts below the given scientific binomial if the latter has changed.

S Y S T E M A T I C T A B L E O F T H E B U T T E R F L I E S O F K W A Z U L U - N A T A L

• Lepidoptera Order (butterflies, moths and moth-like insects)• Ditrysia Suborder (typical butterflies and moths) • Hesperioidea Superfamily (skippers)• Hesperiidae Family (typical skippers)• Hesperiinae Subfamily (various names)

Lycaenoidea Superfamily (blues, coppers and hairtails)• Lycaenidae Family (blues, coppers and hairtails)• Lipteninae Subfamily (various names) • Nymphaloidea Superfamily (various names) • Arcraeidae Family (acraeas)• Acraeinae Subfamily (acraeas)• Danaidae Family (monarchs and milkweeds)• Danainae Subfamily (monarchs and milkweeds)• Libytheidae Family (snout butterflies and beaks)• Libytheinae Subfamily (snout butterflies and beaks)• Nymphalidae Family (various names)• Charaxinae Subfamily (charaxes)• Nymphalinae Subfamily (brush-footed butterflies)• Satyridae Family (browns and ringlets)• Satyrinae Subfamily (browns and ringlets)• Papilionoidea Superfamily (true butterflies)• Papilionidae Family (swallowtails and swordtails)• Papilioninae Subfamily (swallowtails and swordtails)• Pieridae Family (whites, sulphurs and yellows)• Pierinae Subfamily (whites, sulphurs and yellows)

D A T A C O L L E C T I O N

Access to data accompanying earlier collected material provides invaluable insights into the historical background of the region’s butterflies. We have quantities of the oldest collected specimens in our drawers. Useful as these are, they suffer from the not-infrequent data inadequacies already referred to. Localities are broadly given using a town name or even just a province, district or farm name. Obscure mountain or even koppie names may be used. This necessitates much poring over detailed maps and locality gazetteers. Sometimes such localities defy our best efforts and reluctantly must be abandoned.

B I A S O R M A R G I N F O R E R R O R D U R I N G D A T A R E C O R D I N G It is curious that during the collection of locality data for the monumental bird atlas (Harrison et al. 1997), sight records were used, whereas for butterflies data from dead specimens’ labels was initially the only acceptable method. No similar recourse to museum specimens was made at all in the birding circles despite a plethora of bird skins lying in museum vaults. The thinking was that sight records for butterflies could not be checked or falsified by recourse to actual specimens. While this may sound quite true, a little probing into the reliability of data from voucher specimens casts a different light.


In my experience many collectors do not bother to put a temporary label with specimens caught in the field immediately after capture and as these papered specimens accumulate from various localities during one trip, reliance has to be placed on the fickleness of memory at the day’s end as to where each specimen was caught. Another source of error may even be made on the setting-board, as few collectors bother to put a temporary label next to each setting specimen.

Errors in attaching the correct label to each specimen may even happen after the set specimen is removed and before relocation to a cabinet drawer. The strongest argument in favour of sight records, however, is the time factor, since many species require concerted effort to catch. If the only reliable record is a voucher specimen then the recording rate is going to be extremely retarded and exhausting. Much information will be lost when species are seen but not able to be caught. Sight records are also not without question, however, and in the cases of rare, difficult-to-identify species a specimen will always be preferable to a sight record. The expertise of the recorder will always bear much weight in the acceptance of sight records. Then again there will always be occasions when the most experienced field worker has to first catch a butterfly to check its identity. His ability to handle butterflies without hurting them so that they will survive after being identified and released is a problem. Small butterflies are particularly difficult to safely handle without doing them mortal injury.

Not having a wide selection of workers assisting with recording butterflies, the data for this publication emanate mostly from voucher specimens with the exception of my own which consist of a quantity of sight records accumulated during my many visits to protected areas. These were recorded in diaries and consist only of species easily identifiable in flight. Others were checked and released, and others of interest were kept as voucher specimens.

Before leaving this subject it is becoming evident that butterfly recording for a forthcoming atlas of southern African butterflies has now happily leant towards the acceptance of sight records, but this means a big responsibility on organizers in deciding on the veracity and capabilities of workers. The bird atlas had to handle the same problem, so a similar modus operandi should be possible. No method is flawless; it’s just a question of reducing errors to acceptable levels.

I N T E R P R E T A T I O N O F D A T A A N D M A P P I N G – Q U A R T E R - D E G R E E V I Z A V I Z E I G H T H - D E G R E E G R I D P L O T T I N G Data capture proceeded via sheets designed for first-level data capture and then transposed to second-level forms designed to facilitate computer data capture. This was carried out mostly at the Durban Natural Science Museum but also at the Natal (now KwaZulu-Natal) Museum. It was from this final computer database that all maps, histograms, etc., were generated.

Earlier plotting of distribution points (locality records) onto maps was done using a ‘quarter-degree-square-grid’, i.e. 15 x 15 minutes. However, as KwaZulu-Natal covers a relatively small area and a computer program for plotting localities on an eighth-degree-grid system became available, it was decided to use this finer resolution. The advent of the GPS only materialized towards the end of our data collecting exercise and, although most of our specimens lack the precise pinpointing of the collection point, they do give a reasonably accurate record to within the approximately 12.5 x 12.5 km ‘eighth-degree-grid-square’. This means that if a locality point approximates towards the centre of

the ‘square’ then the maximum possible locality error will be only half an eighth degree (± 7 km). Except for very locally distributed species characteristic of some Lycaenids, the majority of butterflies are mobile enough to render an eighth-degree locality restriction adequate for locating a species, especially if the habitat it is restricted to is known. In any case, habitats may be changed and disturbed, and butterfly colonies are constantly changing location, even affecting the very restricted ranges of some species. All this will be revealed as more sophisticated means of pinpointing localities gradually take over. At least the old records are guiding indicators and in the process of refinement new localities may be unearthed which is all to the good, especially if the older or original localities no longer harbour the species.

Using the quarter-degree grid for KwaZulu-Natal may affect a loss of information. This is because its greater coverage of land area could result in a false impression of the altitudinal and vegetation requirements of a species, as the greater part of the grid square could be covering areas that change from plains to mountains or a vegetation type foreign to its biological niche. KwaZulu-Natal is well noted for its constantly changing topography and a rich variety of veld types, so species localities need to be as specific as possible.

Despite all this room for error, especially when dealing with older specimens, the distribution maps certainly indicate the general range of a species. This should assist in directing further research towards fine-tuning distributions using the modern sophisticated instrumentation. Maps on the scale generally used could at best hardly pinpoint the exact localities of a species colony, which may be limited to the area of a soccer sports field.

D I S T R I B U T I O N M A P S , H I S T O G R A M S O F F L I G H T P E R I O D S A N D B U T T E R F L Y I M A G E S

On the distribution maps, the main rivers are shown, as well as major towns represented by dots. In the interests of minimizing clutter, the names of these are only shown on the enlarged map presented in this introductory section (Figure 1). Although largely self-explanatory, it should be borne in mind that in the histograms the figure at the end of each monthly column is a percentage of the total records as given in parenthesis above the columns. The butterflies on each page were scanned from Pennington’s butterflies of southern Africa (Pringle et al. 1994) with kind permission from the publishers A.D. Donker. As the pictures are only shown in black and white, they are not intended for use as a primary means of identification but serve only as a reminder of the species being dealt with. As a further consequence, no attempt has been made to keep the images strictly according to scale.

C O N S E R V A T I O N V A L U E S

Establishing a value for signifying the degree of vulnerability of butterfly species is obviously of vital importance as we enter the future of increasing human pressures on our wildlife. However, this exercise is fraught with difficulties, not the least of which emanates from data which are often thin on the ground. We freely use words to describe relative abundance, such as common, uncommon, moderately common or rare, with little thought of how subjective such terms can be. Generalizing is an all too frequent human tendency shot through with inconsistencies and often tainted with an ego-bias. Notwithstanding, we must make the best of a bad job and if our estimates look right a priori they at least serve the purpose of establishing a comparative basis between species. We will at least be alerted to pay particular attention to


species that rate highly on the vulnerability scale as presented here. During our experience with species in the field, it is inevitable that we mentally establish an image or concept of their distribution and abundance. If the rating used generates figures in accordance with expectations, this at least gives some assurance that we are on the right track of establishing a hierarchy of conservation values for each species. The system used for this publication is one used by various research workers of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife during publication of project results. Dr O. Bourquin was largely instrumental in its formulation and it has the advantage of providing a simple and quick means of quantifying estimates of conservation value (Bourquin 1990). Despite the title of this publication, it deals with both vertebrates and invertebrates. The IUCN publication of Red List categories and criteria (2001) requires much data and time to utilize. It is best suited for dealing with smaller species numbers on the brink of extinction and so could be useful in fine-tuning the species listed in the upper limits of the system used here. The South African Red Data Book on butterflies (Henning & Henning 1989) also needs to be consulted for additional information. The latter publications’ estimates differ in being based on established criteria, thus lending a degree of falsifiability.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S D E T E R M I N A T I O N The relevant sections from Bourquin (1990) are as follows:CRITERIA SCOREi. Habitat specificity Terrestrial animals, terrapins and sea turtles Restricted to specific habitat (e.g. cliff face, sand forest) 5 Restricted to a broader habitat type, excluding man-modified habitats 3 Restricted to a broad habitat type, including man-modified habitats 2 Able to survive in most natural habitats excluding man-modified habitats 1 Able to survive in virtually all habitats, including man-modified habitats 0

ii. Local distribution range Terrestrial species Localized in a small portion (under 15%) of KwaZulu-Natal 5 Localized in an area occupying part (16 – 30%) of KwaZulu-Natal and not widespread in that area 3 Widespread over KwaZulu-Natal but localized to small areas 2 Fairly localized to one or another major part (over 30%) of KwaZulu-Natal and widespread in that area 1 Occurs in all, or virtually all parts of KwaZulu-Natal – from sea-level to over 1500 m 0

iii. Regional Endemism Terrestrial and freshwater animals Occurring only in KwaZulu-Natal 5 Occurring in KwaZulu-Natal and one other S.A. Province, or in one neighbouring country 3 Occurring in KwaZulu-Natal and two other S.A. Provinces or neighbouring countries 2 Occurring in KwaZulu-Natal and three other S.A. Provinces or neighbouring countries 1 Occurring in KwaZulu-Natal and four or more S.A. Provinces or neighbouring countries 0

iv. Commonness Terrestrial and marine animals For species mapped by eighth-degree square

Rare in < 10 squares 5 Scarce in 10 - 19 squares 3 Fairly common in 20 - 29 squares 2 Common in 30 - 39 squares 1 Abundant in > 40 squares 0

v. Protection Terrestrial species Poor – recorded in 4 or fewer reserves 5 Restricted – recorded in 5 - 10 reserves 3 Fair – recorded in 11 - 20 reserves 2 Good – recorded in 21 - 30 reserves 1 Very good – recorded in > 30 reserves 0

O V E R A L L I M P O R T A N C E R A T I N G Figures of the combined total of the five categories used, range from 0 – 25, with ascending figures indicating increasing degrees of conservation significance. At the top end of the scale, figures spanning19 - 25 incorporate all the species which are of concern from a conservation perspective. This category includes all the species that one would expect to be vulnerable by virtue of experience, as well as others not quite as predictable. A review of the figures shows that approximately 12% of KwaZulu-Natal’s butterfly species require scrutiny and monitoring. Also, as expected, the family Lycaenidae includes the greatest percent of vulnerable species, i.e. 40%. Thereafter the figures for the other families in descending order are:

Satyridae – 18% Nymphalidae – 11% Hesperiidae – 8% Papilionidae – 7 % Pieriedae – 7%

The species carrying values of less than 19 merely form a basis for future monitoring in order to determine in what direction they are going. Bringing together the species in the vulnerable section, they order themselves as follows:

25 - Chrysoritis oreas, Iolaus lulua, Poecilmitis orientalis, Hypolyceaena lochmophila, Capys penningtoni, Lepdochrysops pephredo, Orachrysops ariadne.

23 - Durbania limbata, Deloneura millari, Chrysoritis aethon, Iolaus aemulus, Leptotes pulcher, Lepidochrysops swanepoeli, Kedestes chaca, Gnophopetes betsimena, Neita lotenia, Pseudonympha penningtoni, Euriphene achlys. 22 - Capys disjunctus, Tarucus bowkeri, Metisella syrinx, Neita neita, Pseudonympha gaika, Dingana dingana.

21 - Ornipholidotos peucetia, Poecilmitis pelion, Bowkeria phosphor, Aloeides oreas, Lepidochrysops asteris, Abantis bicolor, Kedestes barberae, Dira oxylus, Charaxes pondoensis.

20 - Desmolycaena mazoensis, Cacyreus virilis, Metisella malgacha, Precis tugela, Nepheronia thalassina, Colotis erone, Mylothris trimenia, Charaxes etesipe, Charaxes karkloof, Charaxes protoclea, Acraea acrita.


19 - Iolaus diametra, Hypolycaena caeculus, Deudorix vansoni, Brephidium metophis, Lepidochrysops ignota, Lepidochrysops procera, Papilio euphranor, Pseudonympha machacha.

Z O O G E O G R A P H Y

The profuse variety of veld types and bioclimatic regions in KwaZulu-Natal when mapped (Figure 2) resembles a rich and complicated mosaic, with particular types often very disjunct, i.e. popping up here and there over wide areas. This pattern is more prevalent over the southern half of KwaZulu-Natal. North of the Tugela River, veld types tend to cover larger areas. Only one type i.e. Moist Coast Forest, Thorn and Palm Veld occurs unbroken along the coast in a rather wide strip. Valley Bushveld is promi-nent but of course is scattered over big river valleys from the south up to and including the wide Tugela valley. Starting with the extensive Umfolozi River system and ranging northwards, two veld types become dominant covering large areas, i.e. Sandy Bushveld (including the Sand Forests) and Lowveld. These are restricted to this area and are not found to the south.

To a large extent this changing vegetation pattern is influenced by the corresponding altitudinal variation as evidenced by KwaZulu-Natal’s typical extreme hilliness. Hills become mountains further inland, culminating in the lofty escarpment of the Drakensberg mountains, separating KwaZulu-Natal from Lesotho, and further north-eastwards, the Free State and Mpumalanga Province of the former Transvaal. The precipitous southern parts of the Drakens-berg are the highest, usually above 3000 m, descending steeply towards the coast only 150 km away. Between the Drakensberg escarpment and the coast, two other lesser escarpments occur, the major one producing a prominent belt of disjunct mistbelt forests forming a central backbone through the middle of the prov-ince parallel to the coastline. The other scarp is situated closer to the coast, the most typical being Fields Hill near Durban and the hills from Eshowe to Ngoye near Empangeni. Again forests are a product, fed by orographic rain. K.H. Cooper (1985) refers to the forests along the central scarp as Mistbelt Mixed Podocarpus Forests and those kloof forests higher up tucked in the valleys of the Drakensberg as Montane Podocarpus Forest. Both these scarp forests he groups as Afromontane forest. The warmer, central mistbelt forests, such as those near Donnybrook, Dargle, Balgowan and Nkandla, have quite a rich biodiversity (albeit remarkably uniform in composition from one forest to another) whereas the colder montane forests are much poorer in species diversity. As would be expected, the butterflies inhabiting the first scarp forests near the coast are again richer in species numbers than the other two escarpment forests further inland. Examples of these are Dlinza, Ngoye, Ngome, Ngeli, etc.

The altitudinal effect on species diversity from coast to hinterland is one aspect of the zoogeography of our butterflies but another one equally as dramatic is the effect along a roughly north/south axis effecting changes in climate from subtropical to a cooler more temperate version closer to the southern border with the Transkei. Accordingly there occurs, mainly along the coastal belt, a succes-sion of cut-off points as subtropical species filter out concomitant with changing climatic conditions with progression southwards. Conversely, species adapted to more temperate conditions to the south of KwaZulu-Natal find their distribution into the province up the coast progressively curtailed by increasing subtropical climatic parameters. Interestingly, species of both population groups meet on the KwaZulu-Natal border in the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve

less than 10 km from the coast. Such species as Charaxes cithaeron and C. xiphares, and also C. ethalion and C. karkloof, that occur sympatrically to the south and up to the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve part their ways further north into KwaZulu-Natal, with C. xiphares and C. karkloof shifting inland away from the coast. Other more temperate species occurring on the coast at Port Edward, Stygionympha species scotina and wichgrafi, etc., also shift inland with progression northwards into KwaZulu-Natal such as C. druceanus and Cassionympha cassius. The upshot of this is that whereas more tropical elements merely drop out and suddenly cease to exist as they range south along the coastal belt, the opposite elements from further south have found a way of continuing their distribution northwards via the simple expedi-ent of moving inland to cooler climates in order to keep within the limits of their temperature tolerances.

A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S

If I omit to mention names from the impossibly long list of people that have contributed towards this work, I hope I will be forgiven, as it will be pure oversight.

Right from the beginning Drs Jason Londt and Ortwin Bourquin took up the cudgels with me and ran with the idea until slow progress dampened enthusiasm. Atlassing was still only an idea and the way forward was fraught with growth pains and frustration. Rob Yeadon, a friend of the Durban Natural Science Museum, soldiered on with me but my complete ignorance of computers caused a further bogging down of the project.

By the time the mists lifted off atlassing and the Southern African Bird Atlas Project got under way, I had retired from the museum and became isolated on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. The prospect of completing my long-cherished butterfly project now all but faded into oblivion. Numerous attempts to get things going using local computer talent always ended when it was found that the programs required to be followed by publishers was out of the range of the locals’ repertoire.

Finally, stalemate ended when an old friend of mine, Dr Adrian Armstrong, whom I had helped briefly with some details for his PhD thesis and who was now ensconced with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, came to my rescue. The project was given a lift-off by him and other staff members. Adrian, who is Animal Ecologist of the Biodiversity Conservation Planning Division for EKZNW took upon himself the role of co-ordinator of the butterfly atlas project. He was responsible for sourcing funding for the word-processing involved. It is thus apparent that Adrian’s role was crucial in the salvaging of the project.

However, two other EKZNW staff members played a prominent role in providing expertise and hands-on labour in the arduous task of word-processing. Heidi Snyman, Cartographer to the Biodiversity Division already referred to, is to be commended for her always-willing and efficient service in drawing up the maps and histograms. She made it seem all so easy!

Last but not least, Ronel Schulz, Personal Assistant to the same Biodiversity Division, must have spent countless hours toiling away, even at home, word-processing my none-too-neat manuscript, large sections of which were even in longhand. The formatting or arranging of all the components onto one page for each species also fell to her lot. Ronel’s contribution would be hard to fully appreciate. To her and the other Biodiversity staff


members I extend my heartfelt thanks.

Of course sight must not be lost of the springboard supplied by the Durban Natural Science Museum under whose tenure I was enabled to freely travel and garner together all the rough data. Directors during the period were Drs Phillip Clancey, John Mendelsohn and Brett Hendy. Their consistent support is appreciated. Finally, I am grateful to the Durban Natural Science Museum Trust and the publications budget of the Museum itself, both of which have contributed significant funding to ensure the publication of this butterfly atlas of KwaZulu-Natal.

T E R M I N O L O G Y

A F R O T R O P I C A L Inhabiting that area of Africa south of the Sahara Desert.A L L O P A T R I C Occurring in separate areas, i.e. not overlapping in distributional ranges.C I G A R I T I S A Palaearctic genus allied to Spindasis but D O N Z E L , 1 8 4 7 not represented in the Afrotropical region where over 30 species of Spindasis occur. The closest occurring Cigaritis (C. zohra) is found in northern Africa. It is blotched on the underside not striped as all the Spindasis species are. For this work I retain the name Spindasis in preference to sinking it as a synonym of Cigaritis.C O N G E N E R Closely related species within the same group or genus.E N D E M I C A species restricted to the particular area under scrutiny.E X T R A L I M I T A L Occurring outside the distribution area of the region under scrutiny.H I L L T O P P I N G An interesting but not well understood behaviour pattern of certain butterflies and some other insects. This involves

the congregating of individuals upon the highest points of hills, koppies and mountains. On such hilltops, individuals (usually males) choose perches often on the highest available shrubs or trees. As they sit sunning themselves, they will periodically take to flight gambolling about for some time before re-alighting on the same or a nearby perch. Often they are stimulated to fly off their perch by some passing butterfly, whereupon the two will vigorously fly about together until the interloper departs. This concentration of numbers is reputed to facilitate mate location, especially in species occurring only in moderate to scarce numbers.P H Y L O G E N Y Patterns of evolutionary changes.P O E C I L M I T I S Name retained to cover the genus of blue- flush coppers that have a remarkably constant underside badge or pattern. Now grouped under Chrysoritis.S P P . Plural of species (sp.).S Y M P A T R I C Occurring in the same area, i.e. with overlapping distributional ranges.T A X O N O M Y The formal naming and classification of organisms.


F I G . 1 . Base map of KwaZulu-Natal, showing the major towns and larger rivers. The maps used in the species accounts are smaller versions of this base map and these towns appear simply as dots and the rivers are not named.


F I G . 2 . Map of bioclimatic regions in KwaZulu-Natal.


F I G . 3 . Map of mean annual rainfall in KwaZulu-Natal.

F I G . 4 . Map of mean annual temperature in KwaZulu-Natal.


S U P E R F A M I L Y :

HESPERIOIDEAF A M I L Y : H E S P E R I I D A E

Note: As will be obvious, our Skippers are a much neglected group and there are many gaps in their biology and distribution that sorely need filling.

D I S T R I B U T I O N For a skipper, it has an unusually restricted distribution ranging from the Eastern Cape Province through the Transkei and into KwaZulu-Natal, where it appears to terminate its northerly range in the Ngoye Forest.

H A B I T A T The periphery of coastal forests, where it selects perches on leaves at some height to which it continually returns after intercepting interlopers into its territory.

S T A T U S Generally considered to be uncommon to rare.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Only emerging in mid-summer and there is a build-up in records towards the end of summer with an April peak.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 5:5:3:5:3 = 21

C O M M E N T S Although there are only 11 KwaZulu-Natal localities for this elusive skipper, its penchant for perching high up on trees and largely remaining out of sight could create an exaggerated impression of rarity.

ABANTIS BICOLOR(TRIMEN) 1864

B I C O L O U R E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal, where it is distinctly coastal in orientation.

H A B I T A T Broken coastal forest and grassland. In other regions it favours bushveld.

S T A T U S Fairly common 50 and more years ago but seldom encountered at present. In May 1993, I found the species in numbers feeding on Deinbollia flowers at Kosi Bay.

F O O D P L A N T S Hibiscus tiliaceus (Malvaceae), Cola sp. (Sterculiaceae) and Bridelia sp. (Euphorbiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year,peaking in April.


C O M M E N T S This butterfly is mainly seen with wings outstretched on flowers.

ABANTIS PARADISEA(BUTLER) 1870

P A R A D I S E S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T In sand forest at the Tembe Elephant Park. It occurs in woodland elsewhere.

S T A T U S Rare in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Pterocarpus spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year. It was recorded in the Tembe Elephant Park in May.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Insufficient data.

C O M M E N T S Only recorded recently in KwaZulu-Natal.

ABANTIS VENOSA(TRIMEN) 1889

V E I N E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread throughout the Afrotropical region south to coastal KwaZulu-Natal and Pondoland.

H A B I T A T The semi-shade of coastal forest periphery, frequently settling low down on ground cover herbage.

S T A T U S Quite common in the Transkei and north to Durban; less prevalent in Zululand, i.e. north of the Tugela River.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded in KwaZulu-Natal. Carcasson (1995) gives Searsia (= Rhus) (Anacardiaceae) and Acridocarpus (Malpighiaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with maximum numbers from March to July.


C O M M E N T S The white-fringed hindwings and white-tipped abdomen of the male lend a distinctive and attractive appearance to this skipper.

ACLEROS MACKENII(TRIMEN) 1868

[ACLEROS MACKENII MACKENII (TRIMEN) 1868]

M A C K E N ’ S D A R T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. Pennington recorded only occasional stragglers during his lifetime of collecting in KwaZulu-Natal. These were taken at Greytown in 1928, Empangeni in 1930 and the Ngoye Forest in 1952.

H A B I T A T Forest edges but may wander off into more open habitats.

S T A T U S Sporadic and rare in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded in KwaZulu-Natal. Carcasson (1995) gives Brachystegia (Caesalpiniaceae) as foodplant.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year. It was recorded once in May at Kosi Bay.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Not applicable.

C O M M E N T S My single record was of a specimen feeding on the blossom of Deinbollia oblongifolia at Kosi Bay.

ANDRONYMUS NEANDER NEANDER

(PLÖTZ) 1884

N O M A D D A R T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and the eastern parts of South Africa. It is mainly coastal in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Heavily treed areas where the foodplant occurs; most often in coastal forest.

S T A T U S Not often encountered.

F O O D P L A N T S Dracaena aletriformis (= D. hookeriana) and other Dracaena spp. (Dracaenaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year but more prevalent in summer, especially the earlier months.


C O M M E N T S One of our more handsome skippers but due to its crepuscular habits not often seen.

ARTITROPA ERINNYS ERINNYS(TRIMEN) 1862

B U S H N I G H T F I G H T E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs only in the Transkei and KwaZulu-Natal, where it is quite widespread.

H A B I T A T Found among tall, coarse grasses along streams, in valleys, etc.

S T A T U S Not uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Imperata arundinacea (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to April, building up to an April maximum.


C O M M E N T S Often occurs together with Kedestes niveostriga, sharing the same grass foodplant.

ASTICTOPTERUS INORNATUS(TRIMEN) 1864

M O D E S T S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa and extralimitally further east, including offshore islands of the Indian Ocean.

H A B I T A T May be found almost anywhere.

S T A T U S Generally uncommon to rare, with an occasional flare-up in local populations. Migratory movements over Africa are also likely.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of grass species (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but commoner towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A special effort to locate this distinctive skipper was without result until it was found fairly commonly in the Manguzi/Kosi Bay area. Certainly south of Durban it is rare or absent.

BORBO BORBONICA BORBONICA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

O L I V E - H A I R E D S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It occurs along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

H A B I T A T At Kosi Bay this skipper occurred commonly about the many pans and marshes but it also occurs far and wide elsewhere.

S T A T U S A fairly common Borbo species.

F O O D P L A N T S Grass species (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S The upperside rust flush over the wings makes this Borbo easy to identify.

BORBO DETECTA(TRIMEN) 1893

R U S T Y S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It is mainly coastal in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Found almost anywhere.

S T A T U S Fairly common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S Two spots horizontally placed and resembling a dot and dash on the hindwing underside (also visible on the upperside) help to identify this Borbo species.

BORBO FALLAX(GAEDE) 1916

F A L S E S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It is essentially coastal in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Wide range of habitats.

S T A T U S By far the commonest of the Borbo species.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, seemingly more prevalent in winter than summer.


C O M M E N T S As with skippers, most often seen visiting flowers. A centrally situated whitish suffusion on the hindwing underside is the distinguishing feature of this Borbo sp., although summer specimens may lack this feature.

BORBO FATUELLUS FATUELLUS(HOPFFER) 1855

L O N G - H O R N E D S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N The east African littoral from Kenya south to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T In and around coastal forest.

S T A T U S Uncommon to rare.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year. Numbers were seen at flowers during May about the edges of the Manguzi Forest near Kwangwanase.


C O M M E N T S A sought-after Borbo sp., unique in its rusty-red underside.

BORBO FERRUGINEA(AURIVILLIUS) 1925

BORBO FERRUGINEA DONDOEVANS 1956

F E R R O U S S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region to the Middle East.

H A B I T A T No particular preferences apparent.



F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S A paired grouping of three spots, consisting of a single one and a pair some little distance apart on the hindwing underside distinguishes this dingy little Borbo sp. In this it is similar to borbonica except that gemella is more greyish-tinged over the hindwing underside.

BORBO GEMELLA(MABILLE) 1884

T W I N S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout the Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T No particular habitat.

S T A T U S Recently found in May at Manguzi forest.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S None.

BORBO HOLTZI(PLÖTZ) 1883

V A R I A B L E S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Mainly east African, from Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal, where it is coastal north of Durban.

H A B I T A T Coastal forests.





C O M M E N T S A very dark, virtually black Borbo sp., almost devoid of markings in the male.

BORBO LUGENS(HOPFFER) 1855

L E S S E R - H O R N E D S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to its restricted habitat throughout the Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T Limited to marshes, preferably with moving water.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but local in particular marshy areas.



C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Data inadequate.

C O M M E N T S The golden-yellow colouring of this distinctive Borbo sp. imparts a most attractive appearance compared to the general, dark dinginess of most of its kin. Recently found far to the south at Mapelane.

BORBO MICANS(HOLLAND) 1896

M A R S H S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, found in the Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal and the former Transvaal. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is rare along the coast but is more prominent in some inland forests.

H A B I T A T Forest.

S T A T U S Limited to only a few forests where it occurs in moderate numbers, but not as numerous as they can be in some Eastern Cape Province forests.


F L I G H T P E R I O D November to May with a January to March peak.


C O M M E N T S Has a limited distribution in KwaZulu-Natal.

CALLEAGRIS KOBELA(TRIMEN) 1864

M R S R A V E N ’ S S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From KwaZulu-Natal to Ethiopia.

H A B I T A T Dry Acacia woodland, ascending to play about on koppies and ridges.

S T A T U S Rather scarce in KwaZulu-Natal, being at the extreme edge of its distribution.

F O O D P L A N T S Dombeya (Sterculiaceae) and Grewia (Tiliaceae) spp.



C O M M E N T S Favours inland localities.

CAPRONA PILLAANAWALLENGREN 1857

R A G G E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the southern African region, widely distributed in KwaZulu-Natal and south to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T A true forest denizen, penetrating to the dense interior.

S T A T U S Common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Isoglossa woodii (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout most of the year with a marked February upsurge in numbers.


C O M M E N T S More numerous in forests at some elevation including the Drakensberg kloof forests.

CELAENORRHINUS MOKEEZI MOKEEZI(WALLENGREN) 1857

C H R I S T M A S F O R E S T E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Somalia, south to KwaZulu-Natal, where only a few scattered records exist.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and dry woodland.

S T A T U S The odd records suggest only an itinerant presence in KwaZulu-Natal, probably representing the overflow of migratory waves from the north.

F O O D P L A N T S Triapis leendertziae (Malpighiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably year round. On the 25 February 1993, there were many specimens over the Mkuze Game Reserve.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Such sporadic incursions rule out an assessment for KwaZulu-Natal.

C O M M E N T S The specimens taken from flowers in February 1993 all over the Mkuze Game Reserve were in varying stages of advanced wear and disappeared from the area a few weeks later. This indicates that the species was involved in a migration from afar.

COELIADES ANCHISES ANCHISES(GERSTAECKER) 1871

O N E - P I P P O L I C E M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread throughout the Afrotropical region south to KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats.

S T A T U S Moderately common.

F O O D P L A N T S Quisqualis indica and other species of Combretaceae, Sesbania, Millettia and Cassia (Fabaceae) spp., as well as spp. of many other plant families.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year. It is more numerous during the later summer months.


C O M M E N T S Commonest of the Coliades spp.

COELIADES FORESTAN FORESTAN

(STOLL) 1782

S T R I P E D P O L I C E M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Somalia, south to KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Vicinity of forests, mainly along a broad coastal strip.


F O O D P L A N T S Barringtonia racemosa (Lecythidaceae), Acridocarpus natalitius (Malpighiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a steady build-up from July to April.


C O M M E N T S A handsome member of this genus of large skippers, usually seen at flowers, sometimes even at the first light of dawn.

COELIADES KEITHLOA KEITHLOA(WALLENGREN) 1857

[COELIADES KEITHLOA(WALLENGREN) 1857]

R E D - T A B P O L I C E M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread south of the Sahara, including KwaZulu-Natal and the Transkei.

H A B I T A T Open woodland.

S T A T U S Rare and probably itinerant or vagrant.

F O O D P L A N T S Drypetes (Euphorbiaceae) and Millettia (Fabaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Middle to late summer.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Data indeterminate.

C O M M E N T S Occasional incursions may represent migrating individuals. For example, one April numbers of specimens were seen on Purple Sage flowers at Port St Johns. The species was not seen there either before or after this single encounter, despite numerous visits.

COELIADES LIBEON(DRUCE) 1875

S P O T L E S S P O L I C E M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs generally throughout the Afrotropical region south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T A wide variety of habitats.


F O O D P L A N T S Acridocarpus (Malpighiaceae) and Indigofera (Fabaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked April maximum.


C O M M E N T S Similar habits to C. forestan but somewhat scarcer.

COELIADES PISISTRATUS(FABRICIUS) 1793

T W O - P I P P O L I C E M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Ethiopia south to the Cape.

H A B I T A T Mostly coastal bush, where it plays about sheltered alcoves.

S T A T U S Quite scarce, although widely distributed.

F O O D P L A N T S Grewia occidentalis (Tiliaceae), and Scutia (Rhamnaceae) and Dombeya (Sterculiaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round.


C O M M E N T S The white undersided female is strongly reminiscent of Tagiades flesus.

EAGRIS NOTTOANA NOTTOANA(WALLENGREN) 1857

R U F O U S - W I N G E D E L F I N

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Southern Africa and Malawi. It is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats and particularly partial to scattered bush or open woodland.


F O O D P L A N T S Phaulopsis, Dischoriste and Justicia spp. (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a marked September peak.


C O M M E N T S Fairly common at times; liable to turn up nearly anywhere.

ERETIS DJAELAELAE(WALLENGREN) 1857

M A R B L E D E L F


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal, where widespread.

H A B I T A T Similar to E. djaelaelae.


F O O D P L A N T S Chaetacanthus sp. (Acanthaceae).



C O M M E N T S This and E. djaelaelae are close siblings and are sympatric.

ERETIS UMBRA UMBRA(TRIMEN) 1862

S M A L L M A R B L E D E L F


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It penetrates KwaZulu-Natal marginally.

H A B I T A T Inhabits the sand forests of northern KwaZulu-Natal.

S T A T U S Since first being captured in South Africa at Tembe Elephant Park in April 1993, the species has proved to be not uncommon in this area.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded in our region.


C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S N/A

C O M M E N T S It is difficult to judge whether this attractive skipper has always been in KwaZulu-Natal and has just been overlooked or whether it has recently expanded its known distribution. I incline to the former view.

FRESNA NYASSAE(HEWITSON) 1878

V A R I E G A T E D A C R A E A S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T Said to occur in damp, marshy conditions but this is not always the case and specimens may occur at random.

S T A T U S Formerly unknown from KwaZulu-Natal but rather recently it is being found in more and more localities. Its complete distribution here requires research.



C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Data unreliable.

C O M M E N T S This species and G. niso are very similar. Despite the obvious black patch on the forewing upperside of the male, careful scrutiny is still required, especially with older specimens. Females are much more difficult to separate even when caught.

GEGENES HOTTENTOTA(LATREILLE) 1824

M A R S H H O T T E N T O T S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout the Afrotropical region and widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Found in most of our habitats.

S T A T U S Very widespread and common.

F O O D P L A N T S Various grass species (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a slight April peak.


C O M M E N T S A common garden skipper frequenting lawns, etc.

GEGENES NISO NISO(LINNAEUS) 1764

C O M M O N H O T T E N T O T S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread, occurring through most of Africa, southern Europe, the Middle East and India.

H A B I T A T Woodland, bushveld and grassland.

S T A T U S Rather scarce in KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a late-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Due to its dull colouration, it is an easy species to overlook.

GEGENES PUMILIO(HOFFMANNSEGG) 1804

[GEGENES PUMILIO GAMBICA(MABILLE) 1878]

D A R K H O T T E N T O T S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Africa and across to India.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats, preferring more open areas.

S T A T U S Although widespread, it is sparsely distributed.

F O O D P L A N T S Abutilon spp. (Malvaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, but during the second half of summer numbers swell to a peak in April.


C O M M E N T S A unique little skipper met with in the field usually by chance. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal, except for the high-lying areas.

GOMALIA ELMA ELMA(TRIMEN) 1862

G R E E N - M A R B L E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Inhabits the eastern sectors of southern Africa, from Zimbabwe south to the Eastern Cape Province. It occurs over the upland areas of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy slopes of the Drakensberg at moderate to high elevations.

S T A T U S Localised, but may be common and more widespread at times.


F L I G H T P E R I O D September to December.


C O M M E N T S A skipper of the mountains in KwaZulu-Natal.

KEDESTES BARBERAE BARBERAE(TRIMEN) 1873

B A R B E R ’ S R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread from Ethiopia south to KwaZulu-Natal, not venturing much further south than the Tugela River basin.

H A B I T A T Bushveld, especially where Acacia trees predominate, keeping to partly shaded areas. S T A T U S Not uncommon and widespread.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to April, with mid-summer and autumn peaks.


C O M M E N T S As with many skippers, no precise areas can be predetermined for finding this species.

KEDESTES CALLICLES(HEWITSON) 1868

P A L E R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs only in the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, south to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Flower-bedecked grassy hills or mountainsides.

S T A T U S Not uncommon if looked for in the right places and during the right season.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Its main season, especially at higher altitudes, is December and January, with odd specimen occurring before and after this peak.


C O M M E N T S To locate this skipper, one needs to scan the tallish flowers (e.g. White Scabious), upon which feeding specimens may often be seen. In this situation, the striking underside renders the insect conspicuous.

KEDESTES CHACA(TRIMEN) 1873

S H A K A ’ S R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Western Cape Province to KwaZulu-Natal and adjacent Free State.

H A B I T A T In KwaZulu-Natal, occurs in rank grassy spots on the Drakensberg at high elevations of approximately 2000 m and higher.

S T A T U S Local and uncommon but doubtless under-recorded.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Main summer months.


C O M M E N T S As collectors tend to avoid skippers, especially the dull, dingy species like this one, it is certain that our current knowledge presents only a very sketchy picture of its true status.

KEDESTES LENISRILEY 1932

[KEDESTES LENIS LENISRILEY 1932]

U N I Q U E R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, favouring the drier parts of the former Transvaal, Free State and the Eastern Cape Province, etc. Its occurrence in KwaZulu-Natal is unlikely, resting on a single record from Pinetown (specimen ex SAM, caught in 1879 by J.H. Bowker). Pennington (1963) lists it as common along the coast but is really referring to K. macomo which it regarded as a subspecies of lepenula.

H A B I T A T Dry, stony, open localities – sometimes in grass.

S T A T U S No positive data for KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months.


C O M M E N T S Obviously needs confirmation as to its presence in KwaZulu-Natal; probable confusion with K. macomo has led to this anomaly.

KEDESTES LEPENULA(WALLENGREN) 1857

C H E Q U E R E D R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N A southern African endemic keeping to the eastern sector. Well represented in KwaZulu-Natal, mainly over the coastal plain.

H A B I T A T Open areas along roads or in grass under trees.

S T A T U S One of the commoner of the Kedestes spp.

F O O D P L A N T S Imperata arundinaceae (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a March-April maximum.


C O M M E N T S Frequently encountered except in the higher, colder regions.

KEDESTES MACOMO(TRIMEN) 1862

M A C O M O R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Kenya south to the Eastern Cape Province. It is quite well distributed over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy hills of the uplands and Drakensberg foothills, reaching the coast in places.

S T A T U S Not uncommon in widely spaced localities.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Almost throughout the year with mid-summer and late-summer peaks.


C O M M E N T S An attractive little skipper reminiscent of its larger congener K. chaca.

KEDESTES MOHOZUTZA(WALLENGREN) 1857

F U L V O U S R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Zambia and Angola south to the former Transvaal and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy open areas among Acacia trees, etc., frequenting tallish flowers in the same manner as K. mohozutza and K. chaca.

S T A T U S Uncommon.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months with November and March peaks.


C O M M E N T S More needs to be learnt about this scarce species.

KEDESTES NERVA NERVA(FABRICIUS) 1793

S C A R C E R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa along the eastern side, incorporating the Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho.

H A B I T A T Tall grass in damp situations.

S T A T U S Common over the uplands of KwaZulu-Natal but not in the Drakensberg.


F L I G H T P E R I O D September to April with a peak in October-November and a lesser one in March-April.


C O M M E N T S Common if looked for in the tall “Tamboekie” grass as Swanepoel (1953) refers to it.

KEDESTES NIVEOSTRIGA(TRIMEN) 1864

[KEDESTES NIVEOSTRIGA NIVEOSTRIGA(TRIMEN) 1864]

D A R K R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Kenya and Uganda south to the former Transvaal and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Frequents the grassy hills of the uplands, seldom on the coast.

S T A T U S Rather widespread. It may be found commonly at times, but is usually difficult to locate.


F L I G H T P E R I O D July to April with an early summer peak and another in January.


C O M M E N T S The conspicuous white ray banding its hindwing underside is a prominent identification character.

KEDESTES WALLENGRENII WALLENGRENII

(TRIMEN) 1883

W A L L E N G R E N ’ S R A N G E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N KwaZulu-Natal and the north-eastern parts of South Africa, e.g. the former Transvaal, Zimbabwe, Botswana, southern Malawi and Namibia.

H A B I T A T Arid bushveld, especially the tops of koppies and ridges.

S T A T U S Rare in KwaZulu-Natal, commoner elsewhere.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to April.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Data insufficient.

C O M M E N T S The drier bushveld of northern Zululand just enters the range of this unusual skipper’s climatic tolerances.

LEUCOCHITONEA LEVUBUWALLENGREN 1857

W H I T E - C L O A K E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Grassy mountainous slopes at high elevations up to at least 2400 m.

S T A T U S Localised and scarce; finding a colony is always an event.

F O O D P L A N T S Unknown.

F L I G H T P E R I O D The main brood is from December to February.


C O M M E N T S It may take years before the collector stumbles upon this localized species in its rugged mountain terrain.

METISELLA AEGIPAN AEGIPAN(TRIMEN) 1868

M O U N T A I N S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa and found over the eastern highlands of the former Transvaal south to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Grassveld and valleys, with flowers and low vegetation. It may occur at high elevations in the Drakensberg.

S T A T U S Although localized, may be quite common where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Grass species, e.g. Ehrharta erecta.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer, October to March.


C O M M E N T S Occupies the higher elevations, as opposed to its close relative M. metis which takes over in the warmer, lower regions.

METISELLA MALGACHA MALGACHA

(DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

G R A S S V E L D S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs locally over the former Transvaal, just penetrating adjoining parts of northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Rank vegetation of marshy streams.

S T A T U S Very localized to particular spots. It may be quite common if encountered at the peak of its emergence.

F O O D P L A N T S Not recorded.

F L I G H T P E R I O D December to March.


C O M M E N T S Finding the particular breeding grounds of this species is no easy task, especially in KwaZulu-Natal where it is at the edge of its distribution.

METISELLA MENINX(TRIMEN) 1873

M A R S H S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, from the Western Cape Province, through KwaZulu-Natal to the former Transvaal; mainly over the eastern extremes.

H A B I T A T Forests and well-wooded regions.


F O O D P L A N T S Panicum deustum, Stipa dregeana and Ehrharta erecta (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, occurring mostly from February to June.


C O M M E N T S An attractive and conspicuous forest insect that settles frequently.

METISELLA METIS(LINNAEUS) 1764

METISELLA METIS PARISEVANS 1937

G O L D - S P O T T E D S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to some mountainous parts, from the Eastern Cape Province to KwaZulu-Natal and into Lesotho.

H A B I T A T Rigidly restricted to the immediate neighourhood of its foodplant, the Berg Bamboo, which as the name implies is restricted to mountains at high elevations.

S T A T U S Although highly localized, the species may be very common where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Thamnocalamus tessellatus (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly in January, tailing off to early March.


C O M M E N T S Knowledge of its flight period and exact localities are essential prerequisites to observing this unique skipper.

METISELLA SYRINX(TRIMEN) 1868

B A M B O O S Y L P H


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to a comparatively small coastal section, from the Eastern Cape Province, through KwaZulu-Natal and into southern Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Follows the distribution of its foodplant in coastal bush and forest.

S T A T U S Fairly common and crepuscular.

F O O D P L A N T S Strelitzia nicolai (Strelitziaceae).



C O M M E N T S Males are most often seen at dusk patrolling to and fro in the vicinity of the foodplant.

MOLTENA FIARA(BUTLER) 1870

S T R E L I T Z I A N I G H T F I G H T E R



H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats but appears to favour coastal bush.

S T A T U S Seen only singly as it ranges about, settling on vegetation here and there.

F O O D P L A N T S Grewia (Tiliaceae) Dombeya (Sterculiaceae) and Pavonia (Malvaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with an April peak.


C O M M E N T S A unique, beautiful species that may be found almost anywhere but is so sparse that one cannot expect to see it in any one localized spot.

NETROBALANE CANOPUS(TRIMEN) 1864

B U F F - T I P P E D S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread through Africa and east to the Oriental region.

H A B I T A T Partial to rank, damp situations, as found along watercourses.


F O O D P L A N T S Carcasson (1995) lists Saccharum sp. (Poaceae).




PARNARA NASO(FABRICIUS) 1798

PARNARA NASO MONASI(TRIMEN) 1889

[PARNARA MONASI(TRIMEN) 1889]

W A T E R W A T C H M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, sparsely inhabiting KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Woodland to more open bush. It is prone to hilltopping.

S T A T U S Occurs thinly and sporadically.

F O O D P L A N T S Bridelia micrantha (Euphorbiaceae), and Terminalia and Combretum spp. (Combretaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year with an April to July peak; also a flush in December.


C O M M E N T S At the southern end of its distribution in KwaZulu-Natal and not in its ideal environment, hence its scarcity.

PAROSMODES MORANTII MORANTII

(TRIMEN) 1873

M O R A N T ’ S S K I P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread from Africa to off-shore islands and the Oriental region.

H A B I T A T Occurs in a wide range of habitats, both open and heavily vegetated.

S T A T U S Widespread rather than common.

F O O D P L A N T S Various grass species (Poaceae).



C O M M E N T S May be encountered nearly anywhere, more by accident than design.

PELOPIDAS MATHIAS(FABRICIUS) 1798

B L A C K - B A N D E D S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs from Africa and, via the Middle East, to India.


S T A T U S One of our commoner and more widespread skipper species.

F O O D P L A N T S Imperata and Ehrharta spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, peaking during late summer.


C O M M E N T S Its widespread distribution, not favouring a particular habitat, renders the species difficult to locate at any particular time and place.

PELOPIDAS THRAX(HÜBNER) 1821

PELOPIDAS THRAX INCONSPICUA(BERTOLONI) 1850

W H I T E - B A N D E D S W I F T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa and occurs mainly over the eastern parts of Zimbabwe, former Transvaal and northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Coastal bush and bushveld.

S T A T U S Uncommon in KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year. It has been recorded in winter and summer.



PLATYLESCHES AYRESII(TRIMEN) 1889

P E P P E R E D H O P P E R



H A B I T A T Bush country, including coastal vegetation.

S T A T U S Common and even abundant at times.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, peaking during late summer.


C O M M E N T S A Zululand coastal skipper not known to occur on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

PLATYLESCHES MORITILI(WALLENGREN) 1857

H O N E Y H O P P E R


DISTRIBUTION Endemic to southern Africa over the eastern parts.

H A B I T A T As for P. moritili.

S T A T U S Not as common as P. moritili.





PLATYLESCHES NEBA(HEWITSON) 1877

F L O W E R - G I R L H O P P E R

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. Not included in Pennington (1963) but mentioned as occurring in northern KwaZulu-Natal in Dickson & Kroon (1978) without localities. Its presence in the region therefore needs specific record-based confirmation. Swanepoel (1953) points out a lack of records from KwaZulu-Natal.

PLATYLESCHES ROBUSTUS ROBUSTUSNEAVE 1910

R O B U S T H O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From the Eastern Cape Province through KwaZulu-Natal north to Ethiopia.

H A B I T A T Most frequently encountered in the semi-shade of trees, where it frequently comes to rest on the ground.


F O O D P L A N T S Peristrophe sp. (Acanthaceae).



C O M M E N T S Fairly common. The translucent spot on the hindwing is conspicuous and a ready aid to identification.

SARANGESA MOTOZI(WALLENGREN) 1857

F O R E S T E L F I N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread south of the Sahara including Arabia. It is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal south to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats but appears to be more at home in more arid regions. Often to be found on banks in semi-shade along dry water courses.

S T A T U S Widespread and common.

F O O D P L A N T S Peristrophe sp. (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, peaking during late summer.


C O M M E N T S Common along footpaths. Its cryptic colouration makes it difficult to spot when settled on the ground with expanded wings.

SARANGESA PHIDYLE(WALKER) 1870

S M A L L E L F I N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Limited to the eastern parts of Africa, from KwaZulu-Natal up to Tanzania.

H A B I T A T Favours the shade of dense bush.

S T A T U S Apparently rare in KwaZulu-Natal, but this could be because of under-collection and confusion with the similar S. motozi.




C O M M E N T S At the southern limit of its distribution in KwaZulu-Natal.

SARANGESA RUONAEVANS 1937

R U O N A E L F I N


D I S T R I B U T I O N KwaZulu-Natal to Kenya.

H A B I T A T Shade of trees along dry watercourses and a variety of woodland types.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but easily overlooked due to its drabness, especially when settled on the earth with open wings.




C O M M E N T S Habits typical of the group. It may turn up almost anywhere.

SARANGESA SEINERISTRAND 1909

SARANGESA SEINERI DURBANAEVANS 1937

D A R K E L F I N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, widespread in South Africa and including Lesotho and parts of adjacent Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Inhabits grasslands, especially those of the Drakensberg in the Giants Castle and adjacent areas.


F O O D P L A N T S Hermannia (Sterculiaceae) and Hibiscus (Malvaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to January.


C O M M E N T S Sparse and unpredictable, such that finding individuals is often more by accident than by deliberate searching.

SPIALIA ASTERODIA(TRIMEN) 1864

S T A R S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa south to KwaZulu-Natal where it just enters the northern Zululand bushveld.

H A B I T A T Bushveld.

S T A T U S Found for the first time in KwaZulu-Natal in March 1994 at the Ndumo and Mkuze game reserves. It is uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Hibiscus sp. (Malvaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D The latter half of summer.


C O M M E N T S Favouring the drier bushveld of the former Transvaal, it was rather surprising to find S. colotes on the eastern seaboard of Zululand.

SPIALIA COLOTES(DRUCE) 1875

SPIALIA COLOTES TRANSVAALIAE

(TRIMEN) 1889

B U S H V E L D S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Tanzania south to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Bushveld, where most often noticed along paths, settling on the ground.

S T A T U S Once considered rare, it is now quite often encountered on the sandy Zululand coastal plains. Due to its rapid flight and small size, it is easily overlooked.

F O O D P L A N T S Carcasson (1995) gives Melhania (Sterculiaceae) and Triumfetta (Tiliaceae) spp. as foodplants.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked October peak.


C O M M E N T S As one walks, careful scrutiny of the path just ahead of the observer is required to pick up the movements of this tiny Spialia.

SPIALIA CONFUSA CONFUSA(HIGGINS) 1924

C O N F U S I N G S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal, where it is sparse in the northern extremities.




F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, peaking in late summer.


C O M M E N T S Another Spialia sp. that appears to be sparse in KwaZulu-Natal. However, species of this genus are inconspicuous and no doubt under-collected, as skippers are largely ignored by collectors.

SPIALIA DELAGOAE(TRIMEN) 1898

D E L A G O A S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa south to KwaZulu-Natal, where found in widely scattered localities.

H A B I T A T Bushveld but southern localities may include grassveld.

S T A T U S Occurs sparingly.

F O O D P L A N T S Melhania sp. (Sterculiaceae) according to Carcasson (1995).



C O M M E N T S Seems to occur at random. However, little is known of the biology of the species in this genus.

SPIALIA DEPAUPERATA(STRAND) 1911

= S. ABSCONDITA (PLÖTZ)

SPIALIA DEPAUPERATA AUSTRALIS

DE JONG 1978

W A N D E R I N G S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Ethiopian region. In KwaZulu-Natal mainly restricted to the southern half of the province, i.e. south of the Tugela River. However, this could merely be an artifact of under-collection.


S T A T U S One of the commoner species of this genus.

F O O D P L A N T S Hermannia (Sterculiaceae) and Hibiscus and Pavonia (Malvaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round but predominantly in spring.


C O M M E N T S Appears to be territorial, keeping about certain spots.

SPIALIA DIOMUS(HOPFFER) 1855

SPIALIA DIOMUS FERAX(WALLENGREN) 1863

C O M M O N S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Ethiopian region, including KwaZulu-Natal, where it shows a concentration along the coast.

H A B I T A T Well-wooded areas and the periphery of forests.

S T A T U S Very common.

F O O D P L A N T S Triumfetta tomentosa and T. rhomboidea (Tiliaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with an April peak.


C O M M E N T S Favouring the precincts of forest makes this species unusual, as most representatives of Spialia prefer open habitats.

SPIALIA DROMUS(PLÖTZ) 1884

F O R E S T S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa, from Ethiopia south to the Western Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal mainly found over inland areas.


S T A T U S Rather scarce but this could be an impression gained from not knowing just where to search for it. Many of the same problems attend to most other Spialia spp.

F O O D P L A N T S Hermannia (Sterculiaceae) and Hibiscus (Malvaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably year round.



SPIALIA MAFA MAFA(TRIMEN) 1870

M A F A S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over Africa south of the Sahara Desert and including adjacent Arabia.

H A B I T A T Tolerant of a wide range of habitats.

S T A T U S It appears to be the most frequently encountered Spialia sp.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of Hermannia spp. (Sterculiaceae), and also Pavonia and Hibiscus spp. (Malvaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, depending on local conditions.


C O M M E N T S As with most other Spialia spp., fond of open areas, along paths and on degraded areas.

SPIALIA SPIO(LINNAEUS) 1764

M O U N T A I N S A N D M A N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout the Afrotropical region, including KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Forests and adjacent wooded areas, mainly those along the coast.

S T A T U S Widespread and fairly common, occurring singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Dioscorea cotinifolia (Dioscoreaceae), Grewia sp. (Tiliaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, concentrated mainly towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A conspicuous skipper given to patrolling forest edges, flashing the snowy white hindwing undersides. Its unusual habit of settling moth-like under projecting leaves causes its sudden disappearance from view.

TAGIADES FLESUS(FABRICIUS) 1781

C L O U D E D F O R E S T E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa and found over the eastern parts, from Zimbabwe south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Said to be the open grassy slopes of hills or mountainsides but its occurrence at places like Ndumo and Richards Bay indicates that the vicinity of woodland or lowveld bush is not a precluding factor.

S T A T U S Occurs sparsely in widely separated localities in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Stipa dregeana (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to March


C O M M E N T S A sombre little skipper, easily overlooked.

TSITANA TSITA(TRIMEN) 1870

D I S M A L S Y L P H



H A B I T A T Favours inland forests.


F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded in KwaZulu-Natal but Carcasson (1995) lists Sorghum and Zea spp. (Poaceae).



C O M M E N T S It is more prevalent further north in southern Africa.

ZENONIA ZENO(TRIMEN) 1864

O R A N G E - S P O T T E D H O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs over much of the Afrotropical region. It is mostly coastal in KwaZulu-Natal, following the distribution of its foodplant.

H A B I T A T Wherever palm trees (Phoenix spp.) occur naturally, i.e. mainly along the coast.

S T A T U S Fairly common and crepuscular.

F O O D P L A N T S Phoenix reclinata and the cultivated date P. dactilifera (Arecaceae).



C O M M E N T S Adults not often seen due to their crepuscular habits.

ZOPHOPETES DYSMEPHILA(TRIMEN) 1868

P A L M - T R E E N I G H T F I G H T E R



NYMPHALOIDEAF A M I L Y : S A T Y R I D A E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, occurring from the Western Cape Province, through upper KwaZulu-Natal (above 1350 m), to the eastern parts of the former Transvaal and Zimbabwe.

H A B I T A T Found over the higher interior about rocky grassland rising to the summits of the Drakensberg.

S T A T U S Quite common during its rather restricted flight period.

F O O D P L A N T S Wide variety of grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D December to April, peaking in February.


C O M M E N T S The striking colour pattern, robust build and its powerful direct flight are features not typical of the “browns”. Another curious characteristic is the predilection of the species for orange-red flowers, usually Kniphofia spp.

AEROPETES TULBAGHIA(LINNAEUS) 1764

T A B L E M O U N T A I N B E A U T Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa south to KwaZulu-Natal, where it occurs from Durban (rare) north-east to the Mozambique border.

H A B I T A T Forest paths and margins, also open bush.

S T A T U S Fairly common, becoming more prevalent towards the north-eastern limits of Zululand.

F O O D P L A N T S Various grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with December and April peaks.


C O M M E N T S Often sympatric with B. safitza but not as common as the latter species.

BICYCLUS ANYNANA ANYNANA(BUTLER) 1879

S Q U I N T I N G B U S H B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N East Africa south to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Rocky, grassy woodland slopes of high hills.

S T A T U S Uncommon and localized to a few patches, especially on the northern periphery of KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Unknown but are almost certainly grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably year round.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Records inadequate for assessment.

C O M M E N T S I first became aware of the presence of this species in KwaZulu-Natal when it was found in the shade of a small bush clump on the steep slope of a hill in the Itala Nature Reserve near Louwsburg east of Vryheid.

BICYCLUS ENA(HEWITSON) 1877

G R I Z Z L E D B U S H B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread in the Afrotropical region, ranging south along the eastern sea-board to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is widespread over the warmer low-lying areas, mainly along the coastal belt.

H A B I T A T Forest and bush thickets, avoiding the colder mistbelt forest of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and those within the Drakensberg.

S T A T U S Common and widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Various grass spp. (Poaceae).



C O M M E N T S The most common and widespread forest brown, establishing itself in most extensive thickets including home gardens.

BICYCLUS SAFITZA SAFITZA(HEWITSON) 1851

C O M M O N B U S H B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, from the Western Cape Province, through KwaZulu-Natal to the former Transvaal. In KwaZulu-Natal favours the cooler mistbelt forests.

H A B I T A T Generally occurring in and about forests but may be found in adjoining thickets or riverine bush. Also enters gardens supporting trees with undergrowth.

S T A T U S Generally common.

F O O D P L A N T S Juncus capensis (Juncaceae); Afrachneria, Pentaschistis (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Decidedly more common inland of the coastal plain and into the Drakensberg. It is hardly seen at all in coastal bush and it is virtually absent north of Durban along the littoral.

CASSIONYMPHA CASSIUS(GODART) 1824

R A I N F O R E S T B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the Eastern Cape Province and southern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forest verges and open spaces in forest.

S T A T U S Localised and uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months. March is a good time to observe this species.


C O M M E N T S An exquisite little brown existing in four localities south of and including the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve. In April 1997, the reported finding by Pierre Steyn of the species in the Entumeni Reserve near Eshowe is remarkable.

COENYRA AURANTIACA(AURIVILLIUS) 1911

P O N D O S H A D E F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to KwaZulu-Natal and southern Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Grassy areas with scattered trees in the vicinity of bush or forest.

S T A T U S Common in favoured spots.

F O O D P L A N T S Apparently unknown but almost certainly grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly a summer species peaking during the earlier months.


C O M M E N T S From Durban, where it is now rare, this beautiful, delicate species becomes commoner to the north over a broad coastal strip. Companies of this butterfly may be disturbed within the shade of thorn trees surrounded by bush and grass.

COENYRA HEBE(TRIMEN) 1862

Z U L U S H A D E F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, covering Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, former Transvaal and northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Rocky, grassy Acacia woodland.

S T A T U S Extremely rare in KwaZulu-Natal but much commoner to the north over the former Transvaal, etc. Its distribution is localized.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Said to be October to April for the species outside KwaZulu-Natal.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Records insufficient.

C O M M E N T S Subsequent to the original specimen(s), which presumably were caught in KwaZulu-Natal and upon which Boisduval based his description in 1847, no further material of this species has been found and, as time has passed, doubt has grown as to whether it occurs in KwaZulu-Natal at all. And so it was with great interest that a specimen of N. natalii was found in a collection of butterflies donated to the Durban Natural Science Museum by a vet, Dr M. Keep, who amassed this collection while he was stationed at the Umfolozi and Hluhluwe game reserves during 1971. Most specimens bore locality labels but unfortunately the all-important Brown in question lacked any data. Contact with Keep was made before he emigrated and he assured me that the specimen was indeed caught on the reserve. The fact is that none of his specimens were caught outside KwaZulu-Natal and were all typical of the fauna of the region he worked in. It would nevertheless be of much interest to learn more of the presence of this attractive species’ in KwaZulu-Natal and why it has eluded capture for so long, especially as the province is comparatively small and rather well researched.

COENYROPSIS NATALII NATALII(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

N A T A L B R O W N M . K E E P ’ S S P E C I M E N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Hills east of Wakkerstroom, spilling over into KwaZulu-Natal in the Groenvlei area.

H A B I T A T Rocky grassy hills and mountains.

S T A T U S Obscure.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to December.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Unknown.

C O M M E N T S An interesting taxon that requires further research to determine its range limits and variability.

DINGANA ALAEDEUSHENNING & HENNING 1984

W A K K E R S T R O O M W I D O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa and Lesotho; widespread.

H A B I T A T Grassy hills and mountains south of the Tugela River.

S T A T U S Varies from isolated singletons to extreme abundance.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to January with a steady decline after a major initial flush.


C O M M E N T S Occurs over a wide range of altitudes, rainfall and habitats in South Africa, mainly affecting overall size of the adult insect. Except for some variation of the size of the arc of sub-marginal white spots in the forewing, the various geographical populations are remarkably alike, despite their inhabiting diverse and far-flung localities. Subdivision into various species or subspecies does not appear warranted.

DINGANA BOWKERI BOWKERI(TRIMEN) 1870

[SERRADINGA BOWKERI BOWKERI

(TRIMEN) 1870]

[SERRADINGA CLARKI DRACOMONTANA

HENNING & HENNING 1996]

B O W K E R ’ S W I D O W [ A N D C L A R K ’ S W I D O W ]


D I S T R I B U T I O N KwaZulu-Natal, former Transvaal and Swaziland. In KwaZulu-Natal confined to the Mooi River/Estcourt area.

H A B I T A T Grassy, rocky ridges and hilltops, but occurring in limited local colonies.

S T A T U S Quite common within a colony but a visit must be carefully timed to coincide with the short spring flight period.

F O O D P L A N T S Grass spp. e.g. Ehrharta erecta (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges early in the season and most abundant during October.


C O M M E N T S The restriction of this subspecies to such a small area of KwaZulu-Natal is perplexing especially as the grass foodplants occur far and wide. Should the area inhabited turn out to be a shrinking relict of a former wider distribution, then we need to be concerned as to its survival. Quite a few Satyridae species appear to be in the same situation.

DINGANA DINGANA DINGANA(TRIMEN) 1873

[DINGANA DINGANA(TRIMEN) 1873]

D I N G A A N ’ S W I D O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Virtually endemic to the Transkei, spilling over peripherally to other adjacent parts of the Eastern Cape Province (Stutterheim) and to KwaZulu-Natal at Kokstad. Reaches the coast at odd points (Cebe) but is more adapted to the elevated inland hills and the foothills of mountains.

H A B I T A T Open grassy meadows and hillsides scattered with rocks.

S T A T U S Abundant in favoured localized spots, with odd singletons wandering off.


F L I G H T P E R I O D The onset of their flight period is usually finely timed to within a particular week according to altitude; the higher the altitude, the earlier they emerge. Thus at Kokstad (1300 m) the beginning of January signals their appearance, whereas at Sutterheim at 900 m they emerge nearly a month later.


C O M M E N T S There is no obvious reason why the distribution of oxylus should not extend further to the north-east in the vicinity of Kokstad as foodplant is not a limiting factor for this open-grassland brown.

DIRA OXYLUS(TRIMEN) 1881

P O N D O L A N D W I D O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout most of the moister Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T Floors of forests and adjacent riverine thickets, where there is sufficient shade.

S T A T U S Locally distributed and uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Various grass species (Poaceae), e.g. Ehrharta spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably year round, with preponderance in winter in South Africa.


C O M M E N T S Trimen (1887) notes this species as occurring in various localities about Durban and up to Verulam. Today its KwaZulu-Natal range has shrunk to two relict areas to the south, viz. Oribi Gorge and the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve on the Transkei border.

Fragmentation of forests has probably caused its decline, as only the larger undisturbed forests of southern KwaZulu-Natal and the Transkei still harbour this southern isolate of this Twilight Brown. This fact could also account for the large gap in distribution between southern KwaZulu-Natal and its next inhabited area in eastern Zimbabwe. Fortunately the two KwaZulu-Natal refugia fall within protected reserves but it still remains a vulnerable species.

GNOPHODES BETSIMENA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

GNOPHODES BETSIMENA DIVERSA

(BUTLER) 1880

Y E L L O W - B A N D E D T W I L I G H T B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal concentrated mainly along the coastal belt, penetrating sparingly quite far inland.

H A B I T A T Although partial to rank vegetation along streams, the species may also be found in open woodland but not where it is too dry.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but tends to be somewhat localized.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a build-up towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A rather localized brown but quite widespread.

HENOTESIA PERSPICUA(TRIMEN) 1873

[HETEROPSIS PERSPICUA PERSPICUA

(TRIMEN) 1873]

M A R S H P A T R O L L E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over tropical Africa and in the Old World.

H A B I T A T Forest floors and adjacent bush, where shade is adequate.

S T A T U S Fairly common along the coastal forests. It is rare, to absent inland. Found swarming at times in the Ndumo and Mkuze areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Wide variety of grass spp. (Poaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round but much commoner during the winter months.


C O M M E N T S Largely inactive during the day, hence the name. It becomes decidedly commoner towards the warmer tropics, especially over Zululand.

MELANITIS LEDA(LINNAEUS) 1758

MELANITIS LEDA HELENA(WESTWOOD) 1851

T W I L I G H T B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Zambia south to the former Transvaal. A single specimen from upper KwaZulu-Natal establishes its presence here as well.

H A B I T A T Grassy woodland.





C O M M E N T S In April, Don Quinn of Empangeni caught a specimen of this Brown on the high hills at Nkandla, north-west of Eshowe. Unfortunately this record remains unique for KwaZulu-Natal and, as in the case of N. natalii, it needs to be rediscovered in this province.

NEITA EXTENSA(BUTLER) 1898

S A V A N N A B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs on spurs of the Drakensberg from Bushman’s Nek up to Loteni. It is restricted to an elevation of between 2000 and 2300 m above sea level. Also occurs at similar altitudes within Lesotho, mainly towards the south-east.

H A B I T A T At Bushman’s Nek the species favours the vicinity of huge rocks adorning the northern aspects of a high ridge.

S T A T U S Scarce to moderately common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly during December.


C O M M E N T S Its apparent limited distribution and high conservation status is probably mainly due to its inaccessibility. Nevertheless lotenia is an interesting Brown and merits attention.

NEITA LOTENIA(VAN SON) 1949

L O T E N I B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, occurring from the Eastern Cape Province, through KwaZulu-Natal, to the former Transvaal, in widely separated colonies.

H A B I T A T Other than open grassland, colonies occur from hilly, rocky areas to flat country with no rocks, rendering predictions as to where the species may be found impossible. A suggestion of a restriction to the sweeter grassveld has been mooted.

S T A T U S Thinly dispersed.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months with a distinct mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Like its congener lotenia, its high conservation status is no doubt more a reflection of our ignorance concerning its biology than of its true status. Its curious isolation to a relatively small portion of central KwaZulu-Natal is remarkable, especially for a Satyrid.

NEITA NEITA(WALLENGREN) 1875

N E I T A B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa. The subspecies albina in KwaZulu-Natal is an upland form.

H A B I T A T The mistbelt forests of the central parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensberg.

S T A T U S Common at the height of its limited flight period.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide variety of grass spp. (Poaceae) and even utilizing sedges (Cyperaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D February to April with March the peak period.


C O M M E N T S Emerges as summer temperatures begin dropping. Virtually all sizeable patches of forest are tenanted by this attractive brown and it may be almost abundant in favoured spots.

PARALETHE INDOSA(TRIMEN) 1879

PARALETHE INDOSA ALBINAVAN SON 1955

[PARALETHE DENDROPHILUS INDOSA

(TRIMEN) 1879]

F O R E S T B R O W N

B O T H S U B S P E C I E S



D I S T R I B U T I O N This, the nominate subspecies, is endemic to KwaZulu-Natal, replacing albina on the southern coastal strip as far as Port Shepstone. Northwards it veers inland to forests such as Qudeni, Nkandla, Dlinza, Ngoye and Ngome.

H A B I T A T Keeps much to the interior of dense forests.

S T A T U S Much fewer in numbers than albina, especially on the South Coast, where finding specimens can be difficult. In the Pongola Bush near Luneburg it took two days to find three specimens. In other forests such as Nkandla and Ngome they are commoner.

F O O D P L A N T S As with albina.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges a month later than albina with April as its peak period. Flies from March to May.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S As for albina.

C O M M E N T S This is a larger, more striking form than albina. Ngoye specimens have the white markings of the forewing particularly large and well developed.

PARALETHE INDOSA INDOSA(TRIMEN) 1879

[PARALETHE DENDROPHILUS INDOSA

(TRIMEN) 1879]

F O R E S T B R O W N




D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, mainly along the eastern sector. In KwaZulu-Natal, it occurs from the northern half from the Tugela basin northwards. The species is probably now extinct in the Durban area.

H A B I T A T Bushveld with a preference for the drier parts.

S T A T U S Encountered singly, not uncommon but dispersed.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly during summer with early and late peaks.


C O M M E N T S The beautifully patterned underside is not apparent in flight. In places, found flying together with C. hebe.

PHYSCAENEURA PANDA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

U N D E R S I D E

D A R K W E B B E D R I N G L E T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs at high elevation on mountains from the Eastern Cape Province to the Drakensberg of KwaZulu-Natal and into Lesotho.

H A B I T A T The summits and sides of lofty mountains, among tufts of coarse grass.

S T A T U S Tolerably common in localized spots.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Limited to two months of the mid-summer period, in keeping with the brief warm period of high altitudes.


C O M M E N T S Inaccessibility of potential localities gives this species an inappropriately high conservation status.

PSEUDONYMPHA GAIKA(RILEY) 1938

G A I K A B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to Lesotho and peripheral areas of the Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy slopes with stunted bushes on mountains above 2500 m.

S T A T U S Fairly common but may be abundant in places, as personally witnessed on top of the Drakensberg at Mont-aux-Sources during January.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Flies during the mid-summer period at high elevations.


C O M M E N T S As with other species occurring at high altitudes, recorded only from a limited number of accessible points.

PSEUDONYMPHA MACHACHA(RILEY) 1938

M A C H A C H A B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Cape Province through KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho, to the eastern escarpment of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Grassland down to sea-level in the Transkei but living also at high altitudes in the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg and outlying high plateaus.

S T A T U S Rather localized but common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S The grass species Ehrharta erecta (Poaceae) was used to rear larvae.

F L I G H T P E R I O D The entire summer period, October to April.


C O M M E N T S The conspicuous silvery-white wing underside is distinctive, as it flies slowly but persistently over the lush grassland it favours.

PSEUDONYMPHA MAGOIDES(VAN SON) 1955

F A L S E S I L V E R - B O T T O M B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Montane zones of the Eastern Cape Province, Free State, Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal. Also occurs among the many browns discovered in the Dullstroom area of Mpumalanga Province.

H A B I T A T Typical montane vegetation of mountain slopes. It flies mostly at slightly lower levels than P. machacha, from about 2000 m and higher in KwaZulu-Natal but coming down to 1200 m in the Eastern Cape Province.

S T A T U S Common at zenith emergence.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Flies during the main summer months.


C O M M E N T S Fairly widespread in the particular montane zones it favours.

PSEUDONYMPHA PALUDIS(RILEY) 1938

P A L U D I S B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N The highest peaks of the Drakensberg and Maluti ranges within Lesotho and bordering regions of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T The harsh environment on mountain pinnacles, consisting of stunted vegetation and fine, short grass growing between the rocks. It also has been seen feeding on small blue flowers growing in boggy conditions. It occurs mainly above 3100 m.

S T A T U S Fairly common but local.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Only for about six weeks during December to January.


C O M M E N T S The inaccessibility of its haunts again skews the conservation status. The cold winds that buffet the habitat of this intriguing brown has selected for a small insect better able to shelter between rocks. Thus penningtoni, the highest-flying of the Pseudonympha spp., is also the smallest. When first seen, it is reminiscent of a small dark Skipper (Hesperiidae), as it flies quite fast and close to the ground.

PSEUDONYMPHA PENNINGTONI(RILEY) 1938

P E N N I N G T O N ’ S B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, inhabiting high elevations of the extreme north-eastern parts of the Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland and the former Transvaal. In KwaZulu-Natal confined mainly to the mountainous areas approaching the Drakensberg escarpment between 29° and 30° S.

H A B I T A T Occurs rather locally about mountains up to about 2100 m.



F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges unusually early in the season, i.e. August, when the grass is still dry. It peaks in September/October and goes off the wing early in November.


C O M M E N T S Particularly prevalent along the Inhluzane Mountain range not far from Dargle; also from Elandskop to Bulwer.

PSEUDONYMPHA POETULA(TRIMEN) 1891

D R A K E N S B E R G B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, from the Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal, and up to the eastern escarpment of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Banks of streams or areas of rank grass but this restriction is less noticeable where they occur on the Drakensberg up to about 2600 m. Does not occur any lower than the hills about Greytown and Karkloof.

S T A T U S Quite common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D All through the summer months, peaking during mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S The bright silvery hindwing underside is much more accentuated in populations at lower levels (e.g. near Greytown) than their duller counterparts from higher elevations on the Drakensberg.

PSEUDONYMPHA VARII(VAN SON) 1955

V A R I ’ S B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa and Lesotho, occurring in former in the Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State. In KwaZulu-Natal, found along the Drakensberg and the southern half of the province.

H A B I T A T Rocky hills and mountainsides, approaching the coast only sparingly.

S T A T U S At best only moderately common, occurring singly.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to March, peaking during the mid-summer period.


C O M M E N T S A fairly localized fast-flying brown.

STYGIONYMPHA SCOTINA SCOTINA

(QUICKELBERGE) 1977

E A S T E R N H I L L S I D E B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa from Knysna in the Western Cape Province eastwards through the Transkei to KwaZulu-Natal, Lesotho, former Transvaal, Zimbabwe and adjacent Mozambique. It is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open hillsides, particularly those with numerous rocks.

S T A T U S Widespread and quite common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Most of the year with mid- and late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S Liable to be found wherever conditions are suitable. Particularly partial to rocks on which they frequently settle.

STYGIONYMPHA WICHGRAFI WICHGRAFI

(VAN SON) 1955

W I C H G R A F ’ S B R O W N


D I S T R I B U T I O N Virtually endemic to Lesotho, spilling over into KwaZulu-Natal in the Bushman’s Nek area, west of Underberg.

H A B I T A T Mountainsides covered with grass, bushes and rocks.

S T A T U S Generally rather scarce but may be commoner in favoured localities.


F L I G H T P E R I O D January and February.


C O M M E N T S It came as a great surprise when on the 28 January 1993 my wife Natalie found a specimen of this species while on a hike along a Drakensberg trail from Bushman’s Nek. Species of this genus have hitherto not been found in KwaZulu-Natal.

TORYNESIS PRINGLEI(DICKSON) 1979

P R I N G L E ’ S W I D O W


T R I B E : S A T Y R I N I

D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over Africa and beyond to India. In KwaZulu-Natal, occurs over the drier interior.

H A B I T A T Open woodland and rocky, grassed terrain.

S T A T U S Usually sparse and encountered singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Grass spp. (Poaceae), e.g. Cynodon.



C O M M E N T S Rather localized, favouring the drier regions. Easily confused with Y. impura, the latter concentrated on the broad Zululand lowland coastal plain with asterope living further inland at some elevation.

YPTHIMA ASTEROPE ASTEROPE(KLUG) 1832

A F R I C A N R I N G L E T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa south to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Bushy verges and grassland.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but dispersed.

F O O D P L A N T S Unknown but assumed to be grass spp. (Poaceae).


C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Peripheral in occurrence in KwaZulu-Natal.

C O M M E N T S The resident population of the immediate Kosi Bay area all show rather marked differences from the common Y. impura occurring widely over the Zululand coastal lowlands. These answer to the description of Y. granulosa. However, variability in both species sometimes clouds the issue and careful comparison is necessary.

YPTHIMA GRANULOSA(BUTLER) 1883

G R A N U L A R R I N G L E T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region south to the northern regions of KwaZulu-Natal where it is mainly coastal.

H A B I T A T Frequents open grassy areas, bush verges, but not in forests.

S T A T U S Fairly common. It is encountered individually.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with early and late-summer peaks.


C O M M E N T S Habits are typical of this genus.

YPTHIMA IMPURA(ELWES AND EDWARDS) 1893

YPTHIMA IMPURA PAUPERA(UNGEMACH) 1932

B U S H V E L D R I N G L E T



NYMPHALOIDEAF A M I L Y : N Y M P H A L I D A E ( T H E B R U S H F O O T E D B U T T E R F L I E S )

S U B F A M I L Y : C H A R A X I N A ET H E C H A R A X E S

D I S T R I B U T I O N A widespread Afrotropical species entering northern KwaZulu-Natal and ranging south to about 28° S. Occasional stragglers wander south to Durban.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and other lowland woody veld-types.

S T A T U S Uncommon but numbers gradually increasing northwards.

F O O D P L A N T S Pterocarpus rotundifolius, P. angolensis, Dalbergia boehmii and D. nitidula (Fabaceae) and Brachystegia spiciformis (Caesalpiniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to June.


C O M M E N T S Prone to hilltopping, where it perches on prominent points such as dry twigs, indulging in frequent and prolonged bouts of vigorous aerobatics during exchanges with passing butterflies.

CHARAXES ACHAEMENES ACHAEMENES

FELDER & FELDER 1867

B U S H V E L D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ranges widely over the Afrotropical region, narrowing down to the eastern seaboard in southern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal confined to all coastal and subcoastal regions.

H A B I T A T Present in all lowland forests and adjacent open woodland.

S T A T U S Probably the commonest of the Charaxes spp. in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Meliaceae: Trichilia emetica, T. dregeana, Turraea floribunda, Ekebergia capensis, and Melia azedarach (‘Syringa’; introduced).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but much commoner in later summer.


C O M M E N T S Particularly robust and rapid on the wing. It is readily attracted to the banana bait in trapnets. Up to about 20 specimens may be caught per day.

CHARAXES BRUTUS NATALENSIS(STAUDINGER & SCHATZ) 1886

[CHARAXES BRUTUS NATALENSISSTAUDINGER 1885]

W H I T E - B A R R E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ranges widely over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal confined to all coastal and subcoastal areas.

H A B I T A T Present in all lowland forests and adjacent open woodland.

S T A T U S Among the more common Charaxes spp. of KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Croton sylvaticus and C. gratissimus (Euphorbiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but much commoner during late summer.


C O M M E N T S It becomes scarcer south of Port St Johns, terminating near East London.

CHARAXES CANDIOPE CANDIOPE

(GODART) 1824

[CHARAXES CANDIOPE(GODART 1824)]

G R E E N - V E I N E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs widely over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal generally confined to a broad coastal strip from about Richard’s Bay northward. Stragglers occasionally reach Durban.

H A B I T A T A typical bushveld species.

S T A T U S Generally uncommon but increasing in numbers towards the northern extremes of Zululand.

F O O D P L A N T S Extremely wide range of foodplants including Bridelia micrantha and Tragia benthamii, (Euphorbiaceae), Afzelia quanzensis and Cassia fistula (introduced) (Caesalpiniaceae), Maytenus senegalensis (Celastraceae), and even Sorghum spp. (Poacae).



C O M M E N T S A large robust butterfly, given to hilltopping during the earlier part of the day.

CHARAXES CASTOR FLAVIFASCIATUS

BUTLER 1895

G I A N T C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs along the eastern half of Africa from the Transkei up to Kenya, ranging to Zambia and Malawi. In KwaZulu-Natal concentrated on the coastal belt but inexplicably avoids the immediate coast from the St. Lucia area northwards.

H A B I T A T Essentially a forest species extending to adjacent more open formations.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S About 20 plant species listed. Among the better known are Celtis africana, Chaetacme aristata and Trema orientalis (Celtidaceae), Albizia adianthifolia (Mimosaceae), Baphia racemosa (Fabaceae) and Maytenus senegalensis (Celastraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a late-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Cithaeron c. cithaeron could be regarded as an ecological vicariate of the similar C. xiphares penningtoni which replaces cithaeron in inland and mistbelt forests.

CHARAXES CITHAERON CITHAERON

FELDER & FELDER 1859

B L U E - S P O T T E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region. Inhabits the coast south of Durban but to the north swings inland to occupy montane forests.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest and periphery.

S T A T U S Rather uncommon generally but erratic in numbers, ranging from absent to being fairly common during a good season.

F O O D P L A N T S Syzygium cordatum, S. guineense and Eugenia sp. (Myrtaceae) and Bersama sp. (Melianthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, at least in lower warmer forests.


C O M M E N T S This handsome charaxes occurs rather erratically over KwaZulu-Natal.

CHARAXES DRUCEANUS CINADON

HEWITSON 1870

CHARAXES DRUCEANUS DRUCEANUSBUTLER 1869

S I L V E R - B A R R E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N A widespread Afrotropical species, reaching its southern limits in northern Zululand. It occurs from the Mozambique border down to False Bay.


S T A T U S Scarce and rare. Most records are from Tembe Elephant Reserve.

F O O D P L A N T S Entada abyssinica (Mimosaceae) and Ricinus communis (introduced) (Euphorbiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but in KwaZulu-Natal only caught so far during late and early summer.


C O M M E N T S Its presence in KwaZulu-Natal was first realized only in 1976 when a specimen was caught by E. Dale near Hluhluwe.

CHARAXES ETESIPE TAVETENSISROTHSCHILD 1894

S C A R C E F O R E S T E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It is mainly coastal in KwaZulu-Natal, penetrating quite far inland in places but not to mistbelt forests.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest but also wanders far afield.

S T A T U S Moderate in abundance.

F O O D P L A N T S Albizia adianthifolia, Acacia ataxacantha and Parkia filicoidea (Mimosaceae); also Tamarindus indica (Caesalpiniaceae).



C O M M E N T S Females are highly polymorphic.

CHARAXES ETHALION ETHALION(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

S A T Y R C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Found within the eastern sector of Africa from Ethiopia down to the Western Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal occurs mainly inland of the coast except in the northern extremes.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and the drier uplands.


F O O D P L A N T S Pappea capensis (Sapindaceae).



C O M M E N T S The gaps between distribution points on the map are probably an artifact created by the species being scarce and irregular.

CHARAXES JAHLUSA JAHLUSA(TRIMEN) 1862

CHARAXES JAHLUSA ARGYNNIDES

WESTWOOD 1864

P E A R L - S P O T T E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N An extremely widespread African species, which reaches the southern end of its distribution in KwaZulu-Natal. Present over all the warmer parts of KwaZulu-Natal.


S T A T U S Moderate to common.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range, including Croton brachystegia (Euphorbiaceae), Hibiscus spp. (Malvaceae), Maytenus senegalensis (Celastraceae), Schotia brachypetala, Bauhinia galpinii, Burkea africana and Afzelia quanzensis (Caesalpiniaceae).



C O M M E N T S Very prone to hilltopping, where it flies vigorously about.

CHARAXES JASIUS SATURNUSBUTLER 1865

F O X Y C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Limited in distribution from the Western Cape Province to KwaZulu-Natal. It is strictly montane in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest.

S T A T U S Scarce.

F O O D P L A N T S Ochna arborea (Ochnaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D The main part of summer.


C O M M E N T S The apparently scant distribution of the species in KwaZulu-Natal based on existing records could well be more apparent than real, as the species does not readily come to the usual bait as used in trap-nets; also, the montane forests have not been as well-worked as the more accessible and richer coastal forests.

CHARAXES KARKLOOF KARKLOOF

VAN SOMEREN & JACKSON 1957

K A R K L O O F C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs widely over tropical Africa with the northern Zululand populations representing the southern limit of the distribution.



F O O D P L A N T S Acacia nigrescens and A. goetzi (Mimosaceae); also Tamarindus indica (Caesalpiniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Present records are from February to June, and again in October and November – elsewhere it flies throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S Not often encountered. The beautiful blue female sometimes comes to trapnets.

CHARAXES PHAEUSHEWITSON 1877

D E M O N D U S K Y C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Along the coast just north of East London, north through the Transkei, and just marginally reaching KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Coastal forest.


F O O D P L A N T S Milletia grandis (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year, with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S This taxon and its distribution, especially for KwaZulu-Natal, require much more research. Time only allowed the genitalia of a few males from the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve to be examined. These more closely matched the morphology of these structures given in the literature (Henning 1989) for C. pondensis, than those of some males from the Port Shepstone area, which are attributable to C. ethalion.

However, the male genitalia of a succession of males from further south over the Transkei showed progressively changing variation, as opposed to the fairly uniform genital morphology in C. ethalion from all over KwaZulu-Natal. This is another field requiring further study.

CHARAXES PONDOENSISVAN SOMERON 1967

P O N D O C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Marginally penetrates northern Zululand form Mozambique. Elsewhere it is widely distributed over the Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T Forests and open savannah.

S T A T U S Rare and of uncertain prevalence.

F O O D P L A N T S Afzelia quanzensis (Caesalpiniaceae), Syzygium cordatum (Myrtaceae), Brachystegia spiciformis (Caesalpiniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Recorded in April, May and September. Elsewhere it is found year round.


C O M M E N T S First recorded in KwaZulu-Natal in 1974 at Kosi Bay and not often afterwards. Probably undergoes north-south range fluctuations in sympathy with changing cycles of tropical climatic conditions, rendering it absent more often than not in Zululand.

CHARAXES PROTOCLEA AZOTA(HEWITSON) 1877

F L A M E - B O R D E R E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to southern Africa, from Zimbabwe to Botswana, the former Transvaal and Zululand.

H A B I T A T The drier bushveld areas.

S T A T U S Reputed to occur in only moderate numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Peltophorum africanum (Caesalpiniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, peaking towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S The distribution of this Charaxes in KwaZulu-Natal is obscure, based on old records which require confirmation. There have been no recent records from KwaZulu-Natal collectors who have had trapnets operating in all likely areas. One difficulty

is that males are not easily separable from those of C. phaeus, itself a scarce species in KwaZulu-Natal.

CHARAXES VANSONIVAN SOMEREN 1975

V A N S O N ’ S C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over tropical Africa. Found over most of the warmer parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forest to woodland and dense riverine vegetation.

S T A T U S Common, especially along the coast.

F O O D P L A N T S Allophylus natalensis, A. melanocarpus and Cardiospermum halicacabum (Sapindaceae).



C O M M E N T S Sometimes seen wandering over open veld, as at Kokstad and Ladysmith.

CHARAXES VARANES VARANES(CRAMER) 1777

P E A R L C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Distributed over inland areas, avoiding the warm Zululand plains.

H A B I T A T Montane evergreen indigenous forest.


F O O D P L A N T S Cryptocarya woodii (Lauraceae), Scutia myrtena (Rhamnaceae) and Chaetacme aristata (Celtidaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October - June but with a marked peak during February.


C O M M E N T S The Kloof locality requires confirmation, as there have been no subsequent records from this area in which C. c. cithaeron predominates.

CHARAXES XIPHARES PENNINGTONI

VAN SON 1953

F O R E S T - K I N G C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal it is also widespread over the warmer parts, i.e. coastal and subcoastal regions.

H A B I T A T Forest and woodland.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S Entada natalensis, Acacia natalitia and A. kraussiana (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, peaking during late summer.


C O M M E N T S The only Charaxes sp. in our area that has such extreme seasonal forms.

CHARAXES ZOOLINA ZOOLINA(WESTWOOD) 1850

C L U B - T A I L E D C H A R A X E S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern parts of Africa, from Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal, where it inhabits the littoral from the Mozambique border down to the Umvoti River. Stragglers occur south to Winkelspruit.

H A B I T A T Forests of the coastal plain where it occupies open glades.

S T A T U S Generally scarce but erratic in its appearance.

F O O D P L A N T S Deinbollia oblongifolia (Sapindaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Possible at any time of the year.


C O M M E N T S An exotic-looking, handsome species occasionally coming to traps. Has a more leisurely flight than Charaxes spp., usually keeping to some height and settling often.

EUXANTHE (EUXANTHE) WAKEFIELDI(WARD) 1873

F O R E S T Q U E E N


ANTANARTIA HIPPOMENE HIPPOMENE

(HÜBNER) 1806

[VANESSA HIPPOMENE HIPPOMENE

(HÜBNER) 1806]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Southern Africa and Madagascar.

H A B I T A T Vicinity of forests, preferring those in the cooler inland regions.


F O O D P L A N T S Confined to the nettle family Urticaceae, e.g. Urtica mitis and Laportia peduncularis.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, mainly from February to May.


C O M M E N T S Encountering this species is always an event of note and even then its wariness does not make its capture a foregone conclusion. In KwaZulu-Natal it is entirely confined to the southern half, not venturing north of the Tugela basin.

S O U T H E R N S H O R T - T A I L E D A D M I R A L


NYMPHALOIDEAF A M I L Y : N Y M P H A L I D A E

S U B F A M I L Y : N Y M P H A L I N A E


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Ethiopia south to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal the species exhibits a similar range pattern to its congener hippomene.

H A B I T A T Similar forests to those inhabited by its congener.

S T A T U S Similar to its congener.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to its congener.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Similar to its congener.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Similar to its congener.

C O M M E N T S If anything, this species is rather scarcer and a little less widespread than H. hippomene.

ANTANARTIA SCHAENEIA SCHAENEIA

(TRIMEN) 1879

L O N G - T A I L E D A D M I R A L


BYBLIA ANVATARA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

BYBLIA ANVATARA ACHELOIA(WALLENGREN) 1857

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region including some surrounding islands, e.g. Madagascar. It is general over the coastal half of KwaZulu-Natal, i.e. the warmer areas.

H A B I T A T Grassy bushveld areas and embankments, especially open, sunny and somewhat dry conditions.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S Euphorbiaceae (Tragia & Dalechampia spp.)



C O M M E N T S Almost exclusively occupies the coastal belt.

C O M M O N J O K E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Over the Afrotropical region, east to Arabia and India. It is widely distributed over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Similar to is congener anvatara but commoner in the far interior.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to its congener.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, especially from October to April.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S As with its congener.

C O M M E N T S Occurs here and there on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, where it flies with anvatara as it also does further inland, but the incidence of ilithyia increases with distance from the coast.

BYBLIA ILITHYIA(DRURY) 1773

S P O T T E D J O K E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over the Afrotropical region and through KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Inhabits areas of rank grass, from stream beds to the slopes of hills and mountains.

S T A T U S Occurs singly and is widespread but never common.

F O O D P L A N T S Shares the same foodplants as the Junonia spp. So from this viewpoint shows closer affinity to this genus than to Precis with which the genus it is sometimes linked.

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to May with an unusual peak in December.


C O M M E N T S An unpredictable species that occurs at random and so is difficult to locate if especially looked for.

CATACROPTERA CLOANTHE CLOANTHE(STOLL) 1781

P I R A T E


CYMOTHOE ALCIMEDA ALCIMEDA

(GODART) 1824

CYMOTHOE ALCIMEDA TRIMENIAURIVILLIUS 1912

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa. It is fairly widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forests and their margins.

S T A T U S Generally uncommon but locally common at times.

F O O D P L A N T S Apparently only Kiggelaria africana (Flacourtiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked February to May bias.


C O M M E N T S Seldom seen on the coast; much more in evidence in midland and mountain forests where the foodplant thrives.

B A T T L I N G G L I D E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N East coast of Africa from Kenya south to the Transkei. Sparingly distributed along the KwaZulu-Natal coast; inland at Nkandla forest.

H A B I T A T Forests and their margins.

S T A T U S Rather uncommon, particularly north of the Umfolozi River.

F O O D P L A N T S Rawsonia lucida (Flacourtiaceae); Kigelia africana (Bignoniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year especially the latter half of summer.


C O M M E N T S Often settles high up on trees, flying off to pursue a passing butterfly.

CYMOTHOE CORANUS CORANUSGROSE-SMITH 1889

C O A S T G L I D E R


CYNTHIA CARDUI(LINNAEUS) 1758

[VANESSA CARDUI(LINNAEUS) 1758]

D I S T R I B U T I O N The most cosmopolitan of all butterflies, having spread to most countries of any size.

H A B I T A T Virtually all habitats except forest and extreme desert areas.

S T A T U S Seasonal, varying from absent to large migrating numbers. Generally occurs in moderate numbers and spaced out, except when feeding in flowering lucerne lands, when they may be more concentrated.

F O O D P L A N T S A huge variety covering many families of plants, principally species of the Compositae (Asteraceae), e.g. the thistles, Gazania and Arctotis spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, mostly from August to November.


C O M M E N T S Migrations of this ubiquitous butterfly occasionally occur in South Africa. A robust species that is able to fly vigorously about during inclement weather when no other butterfly is active.

P A I N T E D L A D Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N East coast of Africa, from northern Tanzania to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T In and around pristine forest of the coastal plain.

S T A T U S Quite common in places from the Lake St Lucia complex up to Kosi Bay.

F O O D P L A N T S Deinbollia oblongifolia (Sapindaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but most prevalent towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A beautiful, tropical component of our Zululand coastal forests. It keeps close to the ground in flight, settling frequently in sunny spots within shady glades or footpaths in forests. At Manguzi Forest, clumps of chewed sugarcane attracted a number of specimens.

EUPHAEDRA NEOPHRON NEOPHRON

(HOPFFER) 1855

G O L D - B A N D E D F O R E S T E R


EURIPHENE (EURYPHURA) ACHLYS

(HOPFFER) 1855

[EURYPHURA ACHLYS(HOPFFER) 1855]

D I S T R I B U T I O N East coast of Africa, from Kenya to KwaZulu-Natal along its northern borders with Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Forests, both in the interior and along the edges.

S T A T U S After its discovery by K.M. Pennington in 1952 at Ngoye, it was not seen again for 36 years, whereupon it turned up in the Manguzi Forest near Kwangwanase where trap-nets were successful in attracting specimens in April 1988. Since then it has been recorded in a number of areas from Kosi Bay to the Pongola Flood plain near the Tembe Elephant Reserve.

F O O D P L A N T S W. Kaspers bred a series from ova laid on Erythroxylum emarginatum (Erythroxylaceae) near Tembe Elephant Reserve.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Being at the edge of its distribution from northern tropical climes, it is uncertain whether its fairly widespread presence along the northern extremes of KwaZulu-Natal is the result of range extension since 1988 or whether it only occurs periodically in Zululand during warmer, wetter periods. Time will tell.

M O T T L E D - G R E E N N Y M P H


EURYTELA DRYOPE(CRAMER) 1775

EURYTELA DRYOPE ANGULATAAURIVILLIUS 1899

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, also to offshore islands, Madagascar and Arabia. In KwaZulu-Natal it becomes more concentrated over the northern Zululand coastal plain where hiarbas is sparse or even absent in particular areas. The reverse holds true for the two species over the KZN South Coast.

H A B I T A T Similar to hiarbas but tolerates more open bush and drier conditions.

S T A T U S Fairly common in the northern Zululand coastal plain becoming sparser southwards especially over the South Coast.

F O O D P L A N T S Ricinus communis and Tragia durbanensis (Euphorbiaceae) and Grewia spp. (Tiliaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Erratic throughout the year with an April peak.


C O M M E N T S Except over the north coast, could be considered scarcer than its congener hiarbas.

G O L D E N P I P E R


EURYTELA HIARBAS(DRURY) 1782

EURYTELA HIARBAS ANGUSTATAAURIVILLIUS 1894

D I S T R I B U T I O N General over the Afrotropical region from west to east Africa and southwards. In KwaZulu-Natal mainly concentrated along the coastal belt.

H A B I T A T Forest and tracts of thick bush.

S T A T U S Quite common, becoming increasingly scarcer north of Durban.

F O O D P L A N T S Euphorbiaceae (Tragia, Dalechampia & Ricinus spp.)



C O M M E N T S A very widespread forest species, probably the most common nymphalid of the bush.

P I E D P I P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread in the Afrotropical region, entering northern KwaZulu-Natal on the Zululand coastal plain and westwards along the Pongola River to the Itala Game Reserve. Trimen (1887) and Dickson, in 1961, recorded the species from Durban but it seems likely that it has now disappeared from this area, as no subsequent records have been forthcoming. Even more remarkable is the claim by Mr F. Stevens (now deceased) of Scottburgh, a long-time butterfly collector in that area, that the species was not uncommon along the nearby Umbambinyoni River during the earlier decades of the 20th Century (± 1928 – 1935) but that by 1940 it had disappeared from the area (pers. comm.).

H A B I T A T A typical inhabitant of the bushveld, usually seen on paths or roads.

S T A T U S In KwaZulu-Natal generally uncommon; the exception being the Itala Game Reserve near Vryheid where it flourishes in good numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Combretum molle and Terminalia spp. (Combretaceae).



C O M M E N T S This unique butterfly is only seen with any regularity from Mkuze northwards, whereas its foodplant Combretum molle occurs over the greater part of KwaZulu-Natal.

HAMANUMIDA DAEDALUS(FABRICIUS) 1775

G U I N E A - F O W L


HYPOLIMNAS ANTHEDON(DOUBLEDAY) 1845

HYPOLIMNAS ANTHEDON WAHLBERGI

(WALLENGREN) 1857

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread in forested areas over much of tropical Africa.

H A B I T A T Essentially a species of warm forests.

S T A T U S Although quite widespread, rather an uncommon butterfly, more in evidence during favourable seasons than others.

F O O D P L A N T S Laportea peduncularis (Urticaceae)



C O M M E N T S This excellent mimic may be easily overlooked as one of its distasteful models, e.g. Amauris spp. Chooses roosting spots around houses to which it regularly returns.

V A R I A B L E D I A D E M


HYPOLIMNAS DECEPTOR DECEPTOR

(TRIMEN) 1873

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Somalia south to the Eastern Cape Province; in KwaZulu-Natal, strictly coastal.

H A B I T A T Favours coastal dune forest, where its foodplant is most prevalent.

S T A T U S Seldom encountered and could be termed rare.

F O O D P L A N T S The nettle Laportia peduncularis (Urticaceae)

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round but more in evidence during summer.


C O M M E N T S Its status and rather unusual habits impart particular interest to this handsome mimic. For example, individuals have been found to regularly return to chosen roosting sites and possibly remain inactive for longer than usual. Specimens in collections are largely composed of bred specimens, as a captured female readily lays large numbers of eggs which are easily reared to maturity.

D E C E P T I V E D I A D E M


D I S T R I B U T I O N Besides the Afrotropical region, this Diadem occurs in many other parts of the world, both Old and New.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats, males often gravitating to ridges and hilltops to establish territories.

S T A T U S Tolerably common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of at least seven plant families. In gardens commonly uses purslane Portulaca oleracea (Portulacaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Shows a marked autumn peak.


C O M M E N T S The male is a bold, active butterfly and the violaceous iridescence surrounding its prominent white spots impart special appeal. The female is a remarkably close mimic of the African Monarch.

HYPOLIMNAS MISIPPUS(LINNAEUS) 1764

C O M M O N D I A D E M


JUNONIA HIERTA(FABRICIUS) 1798

JUNONIA HIERTA CEBRENETRIMEN 1870

D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread in Africa, offshore Indian Ocean islands and beyond to Asia.

H A B I T A T Favours open areas, gardens, embankments, footpaths and disused, degraded cultivated land.

S T A T U S Common only at times; generally found singly or often not at all.

F O O D P L A N T S Justicia natalensis, Asystasia gangetica and Barleria spp. (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S An attractive garden butterfly.

Y E L L O W P A N S Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Kenya south to the Transkei. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is concentrated mainly along the coast.

H A B I T A T Open bush and forest margins.

S T A T U S Fairly common in season, otherwise quite scarce.

F O O D P L A N T S Dyschoriste depressa, Asystasia gangetica and Phaulopsis imbricata (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but much more prevalent towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A rather inactive and unobtrusive species, often flushed from the vegetation where it rests.

JUNONIA NATALICA NATALICA(FELDER & FELDER) 1860

B R O W N P A N S Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N General over the Afrotropical region and Indian Ocean offshore islands.

H A B I T A T Similar to the Yellow Pansy, i.e. favours open areas, especially those weed-infested and disturbed by man.

S T A T U S Usually encountered singly but fairly common and widespread in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to the Yellow Pansy.



C O M M E N T S An attractive garden butterfly.

JUNONIA OENONE OENONE(LINNAEUS) 1758

B L U E P A N S Y


JUNONIA ORITHYA(LINNAEUS) 1758

JUNONIA ORITHYA MADAGASCARIENSIS

GUENÉE 1865

D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over the Afrotropical region east to Arabia, Madagascar and over to the Oriental region. No doubt more widespread in KwaZulu-Natal than records show.

H A B I T A T Although generally found in open areas and along footpaths, no typical habitat can be specified.

S T A T U S Although classed as widespread, it is localized and coming across this butterfly is always an exciting experience.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of foodplants covering eight plant families as listed by Carcasson. Found ovipositing on Striga elegans (Scrophulariaceae) in the Drakensberg foothills.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a build-up in numbers during late summer.


C O M M E N T S Although sparsely distributed in KwaZulu-Natal, pockets of strong numbers may occasionally be found, as was my experience in a meadow in the lower hills towards the Champagne Castle area of the Drakensberg. There in February 1992 they were plentiful, feeding on Verbena-like flowers. Even in this situation adults were wary and difficult to approach.

E Y E D P A N S Y


JUNONIA TEREA(DRURY) 1773

JUNONIA TEREA ELGIVAHEWITSON 1864

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region down through KwaZulu-Natal, where mainly concentrated over the coastal strip.

H A B I T A T A forest species keeping mostly to the lower sunny edges.

S T A T U S Although not uncommon its appearances are generally sparse and intermittent.

F O O D P L A N T S Phaulopsis imbricata, Asystasia gangetica, Justicia and Ruellia spp. (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with preponderance in summer, especially from March to May.


C O M M E N T S A unique, attractive little forest butterfly noticed as especially prevalent in the Enseleni Nature Reserve near Richards Bay.

S O L D I E R P A N S Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Kenya south to coastal Transkei.

H A B I T A T Essentially a forest insect, where it mainly haunts the periphery.

S T A T U S Occurs only in very moderate numbers; never common.

F O O D P L A N T S Rawsonia lucida (Flacourtiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but more prevalent in summer, especially mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S A feature of coastal forests, where it flies rapidly and restlessly about, preferring the sunny edges.

LACHNOPTERA AYRESIITRIMEN 1879

B L O T C H E D L E O P A R D


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical zone southwards over the eastern parts to eastern Zimbabwe and Mozambique. A single Eshowe record indicates a resident or sporadic population in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Woodland and forest precincts.

S T A T U S Rare.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably year round. The date 15 June 1930 appears on the specimen’s label.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Maximum conservation status if it still exists.

C O M M E N T S Obviously needs confirmation as a KwaZulu-Natal butterfly but the specimen’s clear label with the name of H.C. Kenway inscribed as captor cannot be ignored.

NEPTIS ALTAOVERLAET 1955

O L D S A I L O R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Possibly endemic to southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Dense woodland and forest margins.

S T A T U S Quite common but local over the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Towards the Mozambique border goochi is so prevalent that it seems like the only Neptis spp. in the area.

F O O D P L A N T S Acalypha sp. (Euphorbiaceae) as recorded by E.E. Platt.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Now rare south of the Tugela River and virtually absent from the Durban area.

NEPTIS GOOCHIITRIMEN 1879

S T R E A K E D S A I L O R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Fairly widespread over the Afrotropical region, peripherally penetrating KwaZulu-Natal from Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Woodland from light to dense.

S T A T U S Localised and uncommon.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Recorded during early and late summer. Probably occurs throughout the year.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Records insufficient.

C O M M E N T S At the end of September 1992, this species was found at Ndumo Game Reserve and again a year later at the same locality in May. It has also been recorded at the Manguzi Forest and as far south as Sodwana Bay. On the 12 June 2006 Steve Woodhall captured a specimen that appears to answer to this species at the Enseleni Nature Reserve.

NEPTIS JORDANINEAVE 1910

J O R D A N ’ S S A I L O R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extensively distributed over the Afrotropical region. Found over the coastal half of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Dense woodland and forest margins.

S T A T U S Widespread but occurring only in moderate numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Acalypha (Euphorbiaceae), Dalbergia (Fabaceae) and Albizia spp. (Mimosaceae).



C O M M E N T S Its apparent concentration over the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is inexplicable.

NEPTIS LAETAOVERLAET 1955

C O M M O N S A I L O R


NEPTIS SACLAVA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

NEPTIS SACLAVA MARPESSAHOPFFER 1855

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal, found mainly over the coastal half.

H A B I T A T Dense woodland and the margins of forests.

S T A T U S Common at times and places.

F O O D P L A N T S Acalypha and Ricinus spp. (Euphorbiaceae), Combretum sp. (Combretaceae).



C O M M E N T S Our commonest Neptis sp.

N O T E :A record in Van Son (1979) of Cyrestis camillas (= pentheus) for Durban (no details) must be treated with circumspection as no other records exist south of Malta Forest, its nearest locality.

S P O T T E D S A I L O R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over Africa and some offshore islands. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is more coastally orientated than its congener.

H A B I T A T Although eurytis and phalantha often occur together, the latter species tolerates more open areas than the forest-haunting eurytis.

S T A T U S Not as common as phalantha but is by no means scarce.

F O O D P L A N T S Maytenus sp. (Celastraceae); Dovyalis, Xylotheca, Scolopia and Trimeria spp. (Flacourtiaceae); also Populus spp. (Salicaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Easily confused with phalantha; the two species need careful comparison, some specimens being more difficult to place satisfactorily than others.

PHALANTA EURYTIS EURYTIS(DOUBLEDAY) 1847

F O R E S T L E O P A R D


PHALANTA PHALANTHA(DRURY) 1770

PHALANTA PHALANTHA AETHIOPICA

(ROTHSCHILD & JORDAN) 1903

D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over Africa, Arabia, offshore islands and beyond to China. It is also widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Able to survive in most habitats given a modicum of bush.

S T A T U S Ranges from scarce to fairly common and very widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S In keeping with its wide distribution, the species tolerates a wide range of foodplants, covering spp. of seven plant families, including poplars and willows (Salicaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S An attractive nymphalid with a rapid flight, never settling for long.

C O M M O N L E O P A R D


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, sparingly entering the South Africa and only recently found to be definitely inhabiting KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Savannah and the drier bushveld areas, where it gravitates to the hilltops and sides of koppies and ridges.

S T A T U S Quite common north of South Africa but rare in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Coleus and Plastostema spp. (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D So far only seen in December in KwaZulu-Natal but otherwise mainly prevalent from December to July.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Needs more research.

C O M M E N T S The discovery of this species in KwaZulu-Natal at Mendawe (Nkwaleni Valley) by Steve Woodall on 8 December 2001 came as a great surprise but it is not at all common there.

PRECIS ANTILOPE(FEISTHAMEL) 1850

D A R K E R C O M M O D O R E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Generally distributed over the Afrotropical region. It is also widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of habitats except forest and very dry regions.

S T A T U S Very variable, ranging from total absence to fairly common, depending on the season.

F O O D P L A N T S Coleus and Plectranthus spp. (Lamiaceae).



C O M M E N T S An attractive species, freely entering gardens and much given to hill-topping in the field.

PRECIS ARCHESIA ARCHESIA(CRAMER) 1779

G A R D E N C O M M O D O R E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal not a feature of the Zululand tropical lowlands, as it is in the cooler southern regions.

H A B I T A T Areas adjoining streams, marshes and similar areas of rank growth. Also found at times on open grassy hillsides.

S T A T U S Along with the drying up of wetlands, etc., this butterfly is definitely much scarcer today than it was before the turn of the 19th Century. Trimens (1887) remarks that he “met with this species pretty frequently in different parts of KwaZulu-Natal”. Numbers of specimens caught during earlier years in the Durban Natural Science Museum’s collection similarly attest to this view. Today it occurs in a very limited number of localities and is almost rare.

F O O D P L A N T S Coleus spp. (Lamiaceae).



C O M M E N T S Deserves a higher conservation status rating than the figures show. The species could be vulnerable and on the decline.

PRECIS CERYNE CERYNE(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

M A R S H C O M M O D O R E


PRECIS OCTAVIA(CRAMER) 1777

PRECIS OCTAVIA SESAMUSTRIMEN 1883

D I S T R I B U T I O N General over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is concentrated mainly over the southern half, avoiding the hotter parts of Zululand.

H A B I T A T Most vegetation types over hills and mountains. Freely enters gardens. Keeps to open-canopy woodland.

S T A T U S Prominent in its summer form on ridges and hilltops in ones or twos but decidedly gregarious in its winter form when it congregates in numbers in protected caverns along roadside banks.

F O O D P L A N T S Plectranthus and Coleus spp. (Lamiaceae).



C O M M E N T S An interesting, beautiful species having spectacularly different dry and wet seasonal forms.

G A U D Y C O M M O D O R E


D I S T R I B U T I O N General over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal only occurs in a limited number of far-flung localities over the central upland regions.

H A B I T A T Forest glades and their outliers.

S T A T U S Local and somewhat uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Plectranthus and Coleus spp. (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a marked late-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S A striking species, worthy of any efforts to conserve it. The individual variation of its underwing colour and pattern is remarkable, as is its extraordinary resemblance to a dead leaf.

PRECIS TUGELA TUGELATRIMEN 1879

D R Y L E A F C O M M O D O R E


PSEUDACRAEA BOISDUVALII(DOUBLEDAY) 1845

PSEUDACRAEA BOISDUVALII TRIMENII

BUTLER 1874

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal well distributed over a broad coastal belt. It extends south to East London.

H A B I T A T Forest and adjacent woodland. It may play about hilltops.

S T A T U S Although widespread, never particularly common. The Harold Johnson Nature Reserve on the Tugela River is a good spot for a most consistent viewing of this magnificent nymphalid.

F O O D P L A N T S Chrysophyllum and Mimusops spp. (Sapotaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D All through the year, with a peak in April.


C O M M E N T S An elusive insect on the wing but may be bred in fair numbers from the foodplant Mimusops obovatum once one is familiar with the very bizarre looking larva.

B O I S D U V A L ’ S F A L S E A C R A E A


PSEUDACRAEA EURYTUS(LINNAEUS) 1758

PSEUDACRAEA EURYTUS IMITATOR

TRIMEN 1873

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, extending through coastal forests in KwaZulu-Natal and further south into the Transkei.

H A B I T A T Interior of lush evergreen forests, especially the larger undisturbed patches.

S T A T U S Uncommon and localized, appearing to avoid the hot coastal forests of Zululand north of the Umfolozi River.

F O O D P L A N T S Englerophytum natalense and Chrysophyllum viridifolium (Sapotaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year building up to an April maximum.


C O M M E N T S Flies leisurely at some height in open forest glades. Form pondo Carpenter with its red ground colour is limited in KwaZulu-Natal to a single specimen caught near Durban in 1912.

F A L S E W A N D E R E R


PSEUDACRAEA LUCRETIA(CRAMER) 1775

PSEUDACRAEA LUCRETIA TARQUINIA

(TRIMEN) 1868

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It is confined largely to the coastal belt of KwaZulu-Natal south to the Transkei.

H A B I T A T In and about forests.


F O O D P L A N T S Same as for P. eurytus.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but mostly from February to May.


C O M M E N T S The white spots on the tips of the male forewings are very visible and diagnostic when the insect rests on a leaf with its wings held open.

P I E D F A L S E A C R A E A


SALAMIS ANACARDII(LINNAEUS) 1758

SALAMIS ANACARDII NEBULOSA(TRIMEN) 1881

[PROTOGONIOMORPHA ANACARDII

(LINNAEUS) 1758]

[PROTOGONIOMORPHA ANACARDII NEBULOSA

TRIMEN 1881]


H A B I T A T Although usually found in and about the coastal and subcoastal forests of KwaZulu-Natal, it is not averse to wandering off to more open, drier woodland.

S T A T U S Much scarcer than its congener; commoner during certain seasons than others.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to those used by S. parhassus including Phaulopsis spp. (Acanthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a marked April bias.


C O M M E N T S An enigmatic butterfly not found consistently in any one area but occurring at random anywhere that supports its habitat.

C L O U D E D M O T H E R - O F - P E A R L


SALAMIS PARHASSUS(DRURY) 1782

[PROTOGONIOMORPHA PARHASSUS

(DRURY) 1782]


H A B I T A T Sub-tropical forests within a wide coastal strip penetrating inland in the north as far as Nkandla Forest Reserve and Itala Game Reserve.

S T A T U S Varies according to time and season from mostly absent to quite common.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of Acanthaceae, viz. Asystasia gangetica and Isoglossa woodii.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a particular winter bias.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 2:1:1:2:0 = 6Comments: One of the first species to be noticed by people in their gardens. This is due to its large, attractive shape and pearly iridescence.

M O T H E R - O F - P E A R L


SALLYA AMULIA(CRAMER) 1777

SALLYA AMULIA ROSA(HEWITSON) 1877

[SEVENIA ROSAHEWITSON 1877]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Fairly widespread over the Afrotropical zone, sporadically penetrating KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forest to open woodland.

S T A T U S Not recorded in KwaZulu-Natal for decades. Earlier sporadic incursions appear to have coincided with migrations from Mozambique during which specimens have turned up at odd far-flung localities.

F O O D P L A N T S Sapium spp. (Euphorbiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D The few KwaZulu-Natal records range from November to March.


C O M M E N T S Obviously not resident in KwaZulu-Natal. A recent invasion occurred in January 2006 when specimens were seen at Sodwana, Richards Bay and even down to Isipingo.

R O S A ’ S T R E E N Y M P H


SALLYA BOISDUVALI BOISDUVALI(WALLENGREN) 1857

[SEVENIA BOISDUVALI BOISDUVALI

(WALLENGREN) 1857]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical zone through the coastal half of KwaZulu-Natal and into the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Sub-tropical woodland and the vicinity of forest.

S T A T U S Common in season. May swarm and migrate.

F O O D P L A N T S Sapium integerrimum, Euphorbia spp. (Euphorbiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, peaking in late summer and early winter.


C O M M E N T S Capable of a rapid rise in numbers towards the end of summer with defoliation of the host plants. Dense masses of adults ensue resulting occasionally in migrations.

B O I S D U V A L ’ S T R E E N Y M P H


SALLYA MORANTII MORANTII(TRIMEN) 1881

[SEVENIA MORANTII MORANTII(TRIMEN) 1881]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Central and eastern Africa from Kenya south through KwaZulu-Natal and into the Transkei.

H A B I T A T Forest margins to dense woodland.

S T A T U S Sparse over coastal KwaZulu-Natal, never particularly common in any one spot.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to the other KwaZulu-Natal Sallya spp.



C O M M E N T S Much scarcer than its two KwaZulu-Natal congeners, appearing here and there in far-flung spots along the coast; commoner on the South Coast than the North Coast.

M O R A N T ’ S T R E E N Y M P H


SALLYA NATALENSIS(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

[SEVENIA NATALENSIS(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Occupying the eastern seaboard of Africa from Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal and occasionally to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Sub-tropical woodland and forest precincts.

S T A T U S Common in season. May swarm and migrate.

F O O D P L A N T S Shares the same host-plants as S. boisduvali.

F L I G H T P E R I O D As with S. boisduvali.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S As with S. boisduvali.

C O M M E N T S Lives side by side with its congener S. boisduvali.

N A T A L T R E E N Y M P H


F A M I L Y :

LIBYTHEIDAES U B F A M I L Y : L I B Y T H E I N A E

D I S T R I B U T I O N The species occurs all over Africa south of the Sahara and in Madagascar. In KwaZulu-Natal it is mainly coastal but pushes well inland in places.

H A B I T A T Mainly forest and woodland.

S T A T U S Veers from quite common to entirely absent for long periods. It is quite unpredictable as to exactly where it may be found at any particular time.

F O O D P L A N T S Celtis spp. including africana (Ulmaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked peak in summer.


C O M M E N T S An inconspicuous butterfly spending periods perched on tree trunks.

LIBYTHEA LABDACA LAIUSTRIMEN 1879

A F R I C A N S N O U T


F A M I L Y :

LYCAENIDAES U B F A M I L Y : L I P T E N I N A E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region and Madagascar.

H A B I T A T Open grassy situations.

S T A T U S Among the commonest of our small blues of the grassveld.

F O O D P L A N T S Crotolaria lanceolata; Argyrolobium, Rhynchosia and Vigna spp. (Fabaceae); also Oxalis spp. (Oxalidaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a peak in April.


C O M M E N T S The unusual possession of the conspicuous white ray on the underside of the hindwing provides instant recognition of this widespread blue.

ACTIZERA LUCIDA(TRIMEN) 1883

R A Y E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Democratic Republic of Congo south to the Eastern Cape Province. It is general throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Has a wide range of habitats but is usually encountered within spots supporting fairly tall grass on which it frequently settles.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but localized.

F O O D P L A N T S Rock lichen and an alga (Cyanophyta) Carcasson (1995).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but in lesser numbers during winter.


C O M M E N T S A curious moth-like little species, usually encountered by chance as it weakly flies up and immediately settles again.

ALAENA AMAZOULA AMAZOULA(DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

Y E L L O W Z U L U


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, occurring in the wetter parts of most regions including Mozambique. It is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open grassy areas nearly everywhere but usually at some elevation.

S T A T U S Not common but widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Reared on Aspalathus sp. (Fabaceae) by Clark & Dickson (1971).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August through to autumn with a marked October peak.


C O M M E N T S It has a most attractive underside colour aptly described by Trimen (1887) as purplish-lake. This feature is however variable, especially in specimens from localities in the Cape.

ALOEIDES ARANDA(WALLENGREN) 1857

A R A N D A C O P P E R


ALOEIDES DAMARENSIS(TRIMEN) 1891

ALOEIDES DAMARENSIS MASHONA

TITE AND DICKSON 1973

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, keeping mainly to the drier regions.

H A B I T A T Keeping on or near open sandy, rocky ground, visiting flowers where available.

S T A T U S Restricted to small colonies. Fairly common where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Reared on Aspalathus sp. (Fabaceae) by Clark & Dickson (1971).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Most months of the year, with early and late-summer flushes.


C O M M E N T S Colonies in northern Zululand are few and far in between.

D A M A R A C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa. It is widespread over the southern half of KwaZulu-Natal, as well as the southern and eastern parts of the former Transvaal, the Free State and the north-eastern parts of the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Open, grassy country at most altitudes.

S T A T U S Fairly common in its chosen circumscribed localities.

F O O D P L A N T S Reared on Aspalathus sp. (Fabaceae) by Clark-Dickson (1971).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to February.



ALOEIDES HENNINGITITE & DICKSON 1973

H E N N I N G ’ S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N The highest mountains of the south-eastern parts of the former Transvaal from Volksrust to Wakkerstroom and Dirkiesdorp. Where these straddle the KwaZulu-Natal border, the species marginally enters this province, as on the Majuba Mountain.

H A B I T A T About mountain tops with an altitude in excess of 2200 m.

S T A T U S Data insufficient.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October and November.


C O M M E N T S Very similar to other pinnacle-dwelling Aloeides spp. such as oreas, titei, merces, natalensis, etc. This group requires revision.

ALOEIDES MERCESHENNING & HENNING 1986

W A K K E R S T R O O M C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Zambia and Tanzania south to South Africa, occupying the middle regions of Africa. It is decidedly rare in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassveld of the upland regions.

S T A T U S While fairly common in widely separated colonies dotted over the former Transvaal and the Free State, it is almost unheard of in KwaZulu-Natal with only one record from the northern reaches.

F O O D P L A N T S Given by Pringle et al. (1994) as Sida ovata (Malvaceae) for A. molomo krooni.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Most of the summer months.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Data insufficient for KwaZulu-Natal.

C O M M E N T S Rare to absent in the southern reaches of its distribution.

ALOEIDES MOLOMO MOLOMO(TRIMEN) 1870

M O L O M O C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N From the Eastern Cape Province eastwards to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and Lesotho.

H A B I T A T Slopes and summits of mountains from about 1200 m in the Eastern Cape Province to over 2000 m in KwaZulu-Natal.

S T A T U S Local in colonies where not uncommon.


F L I G H T P E R I O D From about October to February.


C O M M E N T S A small mountain vicariate not appreciably different from other congeners inhabiting lower regions. The group requires fundamental research.

ALOEIDES OREASTITE & DICKSON 1968

O R E A S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the southern half of KwaZulu-Natal; also penetrating the adjacent Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Open grassy, rocky areas, ascending to mountain tops and ridges.

S T A T U S Fairly common but localized.


F L I G H T P E R I O D August to March with a mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S The dominant Aloeides species, occurring at most altitudes. It is extremely variable geographically, especially between the coastal and Drakensberg populations.

ALOEIDES PENNINGTONITITE & DICKSON 1968

P E N N I N G T O N ’ S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Former Transvaal, Swaziland and in widespread localities in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open, grassy hillsides.



F L I G H T P E R I O D September to February with a prominent October maximum.


C O M M E N T S At once recognizable by its beadlike necklace of spots spanning the medial region of the hindwing underside.

ALOEIDES SWANEPOELITITE & DICKSON 1973

S W A N E P O E L ’ S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa; widespread.

H A B I T A T Grassy areas within the bushveld.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but occurring in well-dispersed local colonies.


F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May.


C O M M E N T S This odd earth-brown copper occurs here and there over the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal especially on the Zululand plain. Not as vigorous on the wing as its congeners.

ALOEIDES TAIKOSAMA(WALLENGREN) 1857

D U S K Y C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to the mountains straddling the border between KwaZulu-Natal and the south-eastern parts of the former Transvaal from the Majuba mountain to Kastrol Nek east of Wakkerstroom. This is also the range of A. merces.

H A B I T A T Said to be eroded slopes of mountainsides (Pringle et al. 1994).

S T A T U S Similar to its congeners inhabiting these high regions.


F L I G H T P E R I O D November to February.


C O M M E N T S Very closely allied to A. penningtoni and A. oreas.

ALOEIDES TITEIHENNING 1987

T I T E ’ S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, where widespread.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of vegetative types.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but occurring in well dispersed local colonies.

F O O D P L A N T S Reared on Aspalathus sp. (Fabaceae), see Clark & Dickson (1971).



C O M M E N T S A typical member of this species group.

ALOEIDES TRIMENI TRIMENITITE & DICKSON 1973

T R I M E N ’ S C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout Africa and Arabia.

H A B I T A T Acacia woodland and bushveld.

S T A T U S Probably the commonest of our Anthene spp.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp., mostly A. karroo (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year peaking during the mid-summer months.


C O M M E N T S A common visitor to the flowers of Acacia spp.

ANTHENE AMARAH AMARAH(GUÉRIN-MÉNEVILLE) 1849

B L A C K - S T R I P E D H A I R T A I L


ANTHENE BUTLERI(TRIMEN) 1881

ANTHENE BUTLERI LIVIDA(TRIMEN) 1881

D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Open woodland and bushveld.

S T A T U S Somewhat local but quite widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Cotyledon and Kalanchoe spp. (Crassulaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a spring flush.


C O M M E N T S Liable to turn up nearly anywhere but not common in KwaZulu-Natal.

P A L E H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E


ANTHENE CONTRASTATA(UNGEMACH) 1932

ANTHENE CONTRASTATA MASHUNA

(STEVENSON) 1937

D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Acacia scrub.

S T A T U S Dickson & Kroon (1978) report the species as quite common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to May.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 2:3:3:5:5 = 18 (probably inappropriate).

C O M M E N T S More collecting is needed to determine the full status of this imperfectly-known species in KwaZulu-Natal.

M A S H U N A H A I R T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over most of the Afrotropical region, including most parts of South Africa.

H A B I T A T Able to survive in most habitats.

S T A T U S Widespread more than common.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of plant species spread through many families, even species of Sorghum (Poaceae) and surprisingly mango (Anacardiaceae) as well.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, scarcest during the early part of summer.


C O M M E N T S This ubiquitous species is the commonest of this group of Hairtails, in which males are deep purple and females completely different.

ANTHENE DEFINITA(BUTLER) 1899

C O M M O N H A I R T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Ethiopia south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Periphery of coastal bush and forest.

S T A T U S In its element it is not uncommon, but it tends to be local.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia kraussiana (Mimosaceae), as determined by Clark & Dickson (1971).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year building up to a peak from December to May.


C O M M E N T S The attractive underside pattern of brown and white undulating lines is unmistakable as it perches on forest edge vegetation or flowers. It was formerly known as A. larydas.

ANTHENE KERSTENI(GERSTAECKER) 1871

K E R S T E N ’ S H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E


ANTHENE LEMNOS LEMNOS(HEWITSON) 1878

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Kenya along the coast to KwaZulu-Natal, where it occurs quite densely along the littoral.

H A B I T A T Forest.


F O O D P L A N T S Erythrococca berberidea (Euphorbiaceae).



C O M M E N T S Usually seen attending flowers, e.g. Deinbolla oblongifolia.

L A R G E H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E


ANTHENE LIODES(HEWITSON) 1874

[ANTHENE LIODES BIHE(BETHUNE-BAKER 1910)]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, penetrating South Africa only sparingly in the former Transvaal and KwaZulu-Natal.


S T A T U S Rare, only two records known, both from the general area of the Mkuze Game Reserve.

F O O D P L A N T S Combretum spp. (Combretaceae) and Mangifera spp. (Anacardiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year. One of the KwaZulu-Natal records was for April.


C O M M E N T S Derryck E. Whiteley had the good fortune of netting specimens of this more northerly species along the Sodwana Road in the Lower Mkuze area some 15 years ago.

L I O D E S H A I R T A I L


ANTHENE MILLARI(TRIMEN) 1893

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa. It is fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Acacia thornveld and bushveld.

S T A T U S Not uncommon in suitable habitat. It is fond of hilltopping.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Most common in early summer, with a much lower incidence from December to May.


C O M M E N T S Almost always seen frequenting the tops of tall trees on elevated koppies or ridges.

M I L L A R ’ S H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E


ANTHENE MINIMA(TRIMEN) 1893

[ANTHENE MINIMA MINIMA(TRIMEN) 1893]

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Kenya south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Acacia thornveld.

S T A T U S Rare, although a fair number of records exist.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year but most abundant during the first half of summer.


C O M M E N T S Drab colouration coupled with its very small size renders this intriguing little butterfly easy to overlook, as it consorts with others of its kind on Acacia trees.

L I T T L E H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E


ANTHENE OTACILIA OTACILIA(TRIMEN) 1868

D I S T R I B U T I O N The eastern parts of Africa, from Ethopia south to KwaZulu-Natal, extending to the Western Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Acacia thornveld.

S T A T U S Fairly common but tends to be localized.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp., viz. Acacia karroo (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May; especially prevalent from March to May.


C O M M E N T S Seen flying mainly about Acacia trees, especially when in flower.

O T A C I L I A H A I R T A I L

U N D E R S I D E



H A B I T A T Scattered bush and open woodland.

S T A T U S Uncommon and sparse in KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Millettia and Entada spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months, with October and January peaks.


C O M M E N T S Usually found unexpectedly here and there but far from common.

ANTHENE PRINCEPS PRINCEPS(BUTLER) 1876

[ANTHENE PRINCEPS(BUTLER) 1876]

C U P R E O U S H A I R T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Uganda south to KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Acacia woodland.

S T A T U S Uncommon and sparse but is assuredly under-recorded because of identity problems.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp., viz. A. karroo (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Probably throughout the year with an October peak.


C O M M E N T S One must net every little blue as they whirl about in numbers around flowering Acacia trees in order to access this species, a job few collectors systematically do.

ANTHENE TALBOTISTEMPFFER 1936

T A L B O T ’ S H A I R T A I L


APHNAEUS (PARAPHNAEUS) HUTCHINSONII

TRIMEN & BOWKER 1887

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern African from Somali south to KwaZulu-Natal.


S T A T U S Very local and fairly common at the right season.

F O O D P L A N T S Said to feed on Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae) but the history of its early stages is at present very sketchy.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges punctually in early spring tailing off by December.

H U T C H I N S O N ’ S H I G H F L Y E R

U N D E R S I D E


C O M M E N T S It is much given to hilltopping, often selecting the same spot or even tree on which to perch, year after year. From this vantage point, a specimen will readily and vigorously pursue all butterflies that stray within its territory. It is a magnificent Lycaenid, especially the silver-studded underside.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Limited to a broad band of coastline from the Eastern Cape Province (Port Alfred) through the Transkei to Durban in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open bush mixed with forested patches.

S T A T U S Very rare, only two females have been caught at Durban. Only about 10 specimens have ever been caught.

F O O D P L A N T S Not recorded but the larva is probably carnivorous upon Membracids and/or Coccids as has been found in other species of this genus.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Records range from September to December--February and May.


C O M M E N T S An enigmatic and extremely rare species, its biology so shrouded in mystery that we cannot piece together a meaningful picture or even comment on its vulnerability. For all we know it could be extinct or certainly far along the way to extinction. The disparate and far- flung nature of the localities in which it has been found, as well as hardly ever being found again at the same spot, does not present a favourable picture of its sustainability.

ASLAUGA AUSTRALISCOTTRELL 1981

S O U T H E R N P U R P L E


AXIOCERSES AMANGAWESTWOOD 1881

[AXIOCERSES AMANGA AMANGAWESTWOOD 1881]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread throughout the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal it does not inhabit the South Coast but is fairly general over the more northern parts.


S T A T U S Much scarcer than its congener A. tjoane.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia (Mimosaceae) and Ximenia (Olacaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with spring and autumn peaks.


C O M M E N T S A striking species at once recognizable by the conspicuous silvery-white broad stripe adorning the basal section of the costa of the forewing underside.

B U S H S C A R L E T


AXIOCERSES TJOANE(WALLENGREN) 1857

[AXIOCERSES TJOANE TJOANE(WALLENGREN) 1857]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Fairly widespread over Africa from the Democratic Republic of Congo southwards. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Fairly catholic in its choice of habitats but Acacia bush country is favoured.

S T A T U S Quite common at certain seasons, especially when Acacia spp. are in blossom – otherwise scarce to absent.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae) – larvae associated with ants.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a peak in early summer.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 1:1:0:1:3= 6

C O M M E N T S A striking species most often encountered on flowers.

C O M M O N S C A R L E T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa and into Asia.

H A B I T A T Bush country usually never far from Acacia trees.

S T A T U S Common at times, especially when Acacia trees are in bloom.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May, peaking in October.


C O M M E N T S The lilac-pink upperside of the male is unique and exquisite.

AZANUS JESOUS JESOUS(GUÉRIN-MÉNEVILLE) 1849

T O P A Z - S P O T T E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


AZANUS MIRZA(PLÖTZ) 1880

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Acacia-clad bush country but rather more drawn to the warmer lowlands.

S T A T U S Distinctly scarcer than most of its congeners but doubtless overlooked due to confusion with its very similar sister species, jesous.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae) and Allophylus spp. (Sapindaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to April, especially December to February.


C O M M E N T S The possession of a small patch of orange on the inner edge of the outer of the two eye-spots on the inner margin of the hindwing underside is an easy identification mark.

M I R Z A B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region including KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Various types of bush country, concentrating on Acacia trees.

S T A T U S Common.




C O M M E N T S Wherever little blues gather about flowering Acacias, moriqua is often the commonest representative of this species group.

AZANUS MORIQUA(WALLENGREN) 1857

T H O R N - T R E E B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


AZANUS NATALENSIS(TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, including KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Dry Acacia woodland.

S T A T U S Fairly common about flowering Acacia trees.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but more numerous in early and mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Somewhat larger than its congeners and not quite as common.

N A T A L S P O T T E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


AZANUS UBALDUS(STOLL) 1782

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa through Arabia to India.

H A B I T A T Dry Acacia scrub.

S T A T U S Moderately common in particular areas.


F L I G H T P E R I O D October to May, with a mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S An odd, dark velvety patch on the central area of the male’s forewing upperside provides an unmistakable means of identification.

V E L V E T - S P O T T E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa. Coastal in KwaZulu-Natal, ranging south to about the Umdoni Forest at Pennington.

H A B I T A T Forest and thick bush.

S T A T U S May be found singly or in little companies when perched on twigs. Although not rare, cannot be regarded as common and long intervals may separate encounters with this attractive, unusual species.

F O O D P L A N T S Tree lichen.

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to May, peaking in October then tailing off towards mid-summer with a recrudescence as summer wanes.


C O M M E N T S No particular localities can be given for the definite occurrence of this species. One comes across it merely by chance, so listed localitites only indicate where it has been found.

BALIOCHILA ASLANGA(TRIMEN) 1873

C O M M O N B U F F


BOWKERIA PHOSPHOR BOREALISQUICKELBERGE 1972

[CHRYSORITIS PHOSPHOR BOREALIS

(QUICKELBERGE 1972)]

D I S T R I B U T I O N B. phosphor occurs in the interior forests from the Katberg Mountains, Eastern Cape Province, through KwaZulu-Natal, terminating along the eastern parts of the former Transvaal escarpment forests. Subspecies borealis occurs in KZN and the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forests; at times following riverine vegetation leading out of forest blocks.

S T A T U S One of our premier rarities. Very few collectors have even glimpsed this forest denizen.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Most probably throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S A canopy dweller rendering access to collecting or sighting difficult. Heath, in his ground-shaking revisions (1997, 2001) of these ‘copper’ genera, lumps this species with a much enlarged Chrysoritis genus, typically a body of butterflies that have their origins in a very different geographical and vegetative region centred in the Western Cape Province. It has always been realized that the genitalia are basically similar, along with a host of other very different-looking coppers. Nothing is known of the biology and early stages of phosphor and until these essential gaps have been filled it is considered premature to alter its

S C A R C E S C A R L E T

present taxonomic standing. Its remarkable adaptation to forest has taken it through a notable evolutionary bottleneck and so it is already on a different phylogenetic pathway. Taxonomy should reflect this. It would not be surprising if the biological details still to be learnt are also as unique as its facies. Details of these morphological characters, as outlined in my paper (Quickelberge 1972), places the species apart from all other coppers.


BREPHIDIUM METOPHIS(WALLENGREN) 1860

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa and found mainly over the western parts.

H A B I T A T Dry valley bushveld.

S T A T U S Not known to occur in KwaZulu-Natal by earlier collectors, including Pennington (1963). An engineer, Simon Joubert, working at the Weenen Game Reserve, found this species in some numbers in this area.

F O O D P L A N T S Exomis mictophyla (Chenopodiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to March; observed by Joubert in December.


C O M M E N T S Quite common locally outside of KwaZulu-Natal. Being extremely small in size and no doubt locally distributed, accounts for its being overlooked in the drier areas of KwaZulu-Natal.

T I N K T I N K I E B L U E

U N D E R S I D E



H A B I T A T About moist areas along streams, etc., where the vegetation is thick and luxuriant, especially in the vicinity of their flowering foodplants.


F O O D P L A N T S Numerous spp. of the family Lamiaceae (= Labiatae), e.g. Plectranthus, Coleus, Salvia and Lavandula spp.; also Geranium spp. (Geraniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, much commoner during late summer.


C O M M E N T S A common garden butterfly hovering around their foodplants.

CACYREUS LINGEUS(STOLL) 1782

B U S H B R O N Z E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the southern African region.

H A B I T A T Keeps much to the vicinity of its foodplant, which brings it often to gardens. Otherwise tolerates a wide variety of habitats.

S T A T U S Quite common in season, especially in gardens.

F O O D P L A N T S Spp. of Pelargonium and Geranium (Geraniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a January peak.


C O M M E N T S A familiar garden butterfly, settling frequently on geraniums.

CACYREUS MARSHALLIBUTLER 1898

G E R A N I U M B L U E


CACYREUS PALEMON PALEMON(STOLL) 1782

[CACYREUS TESPIS TESPIS(HERBST 1804)]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to the Western Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Rank, bushy stream-beds in high hills or mountains, where the vegetation has the appearance of fynbos (macchia).

S T A T U S Quite common.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to the previous species, i.e. Pelargonium and Geranium spp. (Geraniaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to May.


C O M M E N T S One of the commoner blues of stream-banks at high elevation.

W A T E R B R O N Z E



H A B I T A T Similar to C. lingeus.

S T A T U S Rather rare in KwaZulu-Natal but undoubtedly under-recorded due to confusion with lingeus. In 1995, found in numbers on the mountaintop at Alverstone in the Botha’s Hill area.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of Coleus, Salvia and Lavandula (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to May.


C O M M E N T S Flies about similar situations as lingeus, with which it is easily confused.

CACYREUS VIRILIS(AURIVILLIUS) 1925

M O C K E R B R O N Z E


CAPYS ALPHAEUS(CRAMER) 1777

CAPYS ALPHAEUS EXTENTUSQUICKELBERGE 1979

D I S T R I B U T I O N Likely endemic to South Africa. One or two purported records from Zimbabwe require confirmation as to its occurrence there.

H A B I T A T Lives in association with Protea tracts. Males gravitate to high points.

S T A T U S Local but not uncommon in season.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide variety of Protea spp. (Proteaceae), e.g. P. roupelliae, caffra, subvestita and cynaroides.



C O M M E N T S The commonest and most widespread of the three Protea Coppers in KwaZulu-Natal.

O R A N G E - B A N D E D P R O T E A - B U T T E R F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N A disjunct range, partly in southern Africa and again in Cameroon and Nigeria. In KwaZulu-Natal found only along the South Coast and up to the Durban area. Its range in southern Africa is also disjunct, with hundreds of kilometres sometimes separating colonies, beginning in the south along the Amatole Mountains in the Eastern Cape Province and ending up in eastern Zimbabwe.

H A B I T A T Concordant with the distribution of suitable Protea spp., which may take it from sea-level to highveld and even mountains.

S T A T U S Very local and seasonal, rendering the species difficult to locate. It may at times be quite common within its limited breeding grounds.

F O O D P L A N T S A variety of Protea spp. (Proteaceae), as in C. alphaeus. In KwaZulu-Natal, uses P. caffra and most probably simplex, as the latter is the dominant protea in the Port Edward area, where many specimens were obtained by the Millar brothers in 1939 and lodged with the Durban Natural Science Museum.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges in August, flying throughout the year. The Port Edward specimens caught by the Millars were obtained in May.


C O M M E N T S Undoubtedly rarer today than in the past, when it used to occur in the Pinetown area. Efforts to relocate the species in the Port Edward area have not been successful.

CAPYS DISJUNCTUS DISJUNCTUSTRIMEN 1895

R U S S E T P R O T E A - B U T T E R F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Remarkably restricted to a small area, probably not exceeding 50 km in any direction, within a line connecting Bulwer, Elandskop, Dargle and Loteni, that marks the outer limits and including the Inhluzane range of mountains. Except for these foothills, does not appear to range to any appreciable heights within the Drakensberg escarpment.

H A B I T A T Follows the distribution of Protea caffra within its limited range.

S T A T U S Quite common within its area but only colonizing certain spots.

F O O D P L A N T S Protea caffra (Proteaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Only single-brooded appearing in August and terminating in October.


C O M M E N T S A highly vulnerable species since collecting specimens is made easy by the breaking off of infested protea heads in August before the butterflies emerge. The unique qualities of appearance and limited range of the species also give it added attraction to collectors. Collection pressure was particularly intense during the 1980s and 1990s, and some once-inhabited tracts now show no or very little evidence of the existence of the species. As the foodplant P. caffra is the most widespread of its kind in South Africa, it is extremely baffling that C. penningtoni should inhabit such a small section of the distribution of its foodplant.

CAPYS PENNINGTONIRILEY 1932

P E N N I N G T O N ’ S P R O T E A - B U T T E R F L Y


CHLOROSELAS PSEUDOZERITIS PSEUDOZERITIS

(TRIMEN) 1873

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region.

H A B I T A T Acacia woodland, particularly in the drier parts.

S T A T U S Uncommon but rather widespread.


F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May, most numerous during spring.


C O M M E N T S Quite elusive; not often encountered.

B R I L L I A N T G E M

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, occupying limited spots over escarpment country from northern KwaZulu-Natal through to the former Transvaal as far north as Mariepskop.

H A B I T A T About high rocky ridges, with low shrubs and grass.

S T A T U S Limited to small local colonies, usually far apart and difficult to locate.

F O O D P L A N T S Given as Searsia (= Rhus) zeyheri (Anacardiaceae) in Pringle et al. (1994).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to March.


C O M M E N T S Considering the distribution and biology of the species, it must always remain vulnerable but taken as a whole it appears to be rather well established.

CHRYSORITIS AETHON(TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

L Y D E N B U R G O P A L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Enjoys a fairly continuous distribution from the Western Cape Province, through the Eastern Cape Province, to KwaZulu-Natal where it terminates its range rather abruptly in the Durban area. Inland it incorporates the Free State, Lesotho and the southern parts of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Frequently found settling on low shrubs in somewhat broken, rocky, grassy country.

S T A T U S Encountered singly but widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Cotyledon orbiculata (Crassulaceae) and Zygophyllum spp. (Zygophyllaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year in warmer areas, with a peak in spring.


C O M M E N T S No sharp geographical delineation is evident between populations of the present species and P. natalensis van Son. Kokstad populations occupy an intermediate position morphologically between chrysaor and natalensis, as do other populations scattered over the Eastern Cape Province. Also, as the two forms do not exist in sympatry, there is therefore no firm evidence that they constitute discrete species, as currently accepted. C. natalensis is therefore regarded as a synonym of C. chrysaor.

CHRYSORITIS CHRYSAOR(TRIMEN) 1864

B U R N I S H E D O P A L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Virtually endemic to the uplands of KwaZulu-Natal, just intruding over into the Free State at Harrismith and on the former Transvaal border at Wakkerstroom.

H A B I T A T Broken ground about rocky outcrops, ridges and koppies, accompanied by the usual sprinkling of shrubbery. However, very few areas combining all these features are tenanted by the species, one reason being the possible absence of the particular ant associated with its early stages.

S T A T U S Very local, although reasonably widespread about the cooler higher ground of KwaZulu-Natal. It is never common and is usually encountered singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Diospyros lycioides (Ebenaceae); Myrsine africana (Mysinaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Late winter to March.


C O M M E N T S A striking little copper never easy to locate unless directed to known spots.

CHRYSORITIS LYCEGENES(TRIMEN) 1874

M O O I R I V E R O P A L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg and its outliers.

H A B I T A T Grassy, rocky spots on ridges and other high-lying areas.

S T A T U S Very localized in colonies varying from a few individuals to concentrations of goodly numbers. Few colonies have been located; seemingly confined mainly to the southern KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg from Bushman’s Nek to Giants Castle.

F O O D P L A N T S Thesium sp. (Santalaceae) according to Heath (1997).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Peak months are September and October, with odd records later towards mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Difficult to locate unless directed to known spots. Obviously a species that requires careful monitoring to establish its survival status but more knowledge of the biology and distribution of the species is needed before a meaningful conservation assessment is possible.

CHRYSORITIS OREAS(TRIMEN) 1891

D R A K E N S B E R G D A I S Y C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg at altitudes of approximately 2100 m.

H A B I T A T Rocky slopes leading up to high ridges and prominences. It does not appear to gather on summits.

S T A T U S Very local but may occur in fair numbers within its very circumscribed colonies. Only two localities are known for KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D After an October/November emergence, continues until February.


C O M M E N T S Closely allied to P. pelion of which it might only be an altitudinal form. Besides the typical Bushman’s Nek locality, the species was also found near the summit of the Matatiele Mountain.

CHRYSORITIS ORIENTALIS(SWANEPOEL) 1976

E A S T E R N O P A L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Largely confined to the higher reaches of the Lesotho mountains, especially the more northern ranges abutting on the Free State. Occurs peripherally in the adjoining Eastern Cape Province, KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, where these Lesotho mountains stretch beyond the borders.

H A B I T A T Along paths, rocky knolls and mountain summits, mainly above 2700 m.

S T A T U S In common with its congeners, occurs in limited numbers within restricted far-flung spots.


F L I G H T P E R I O D November to February, peaking in mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S One of the few butterflies that penetrate to the highest reaches of our highest mountains. Not easy to locate. It can be seen in fair numbers along the footpath on a high contour leading to the chain ladder in the Mont-aux-Sources area.

CHRYSORITIS PELION(PENNINGTON) 1953

M A C H A C H A O P A L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, including most regions except the cooler southern parts. In KwaZulu-Natal restricted to the warmer northern parts, including the Itala Game Reserve.

H A B I T A T Bushveld, where often seen about the tops of koppies or ridges.

S T A T U S Uncommon to rare. This could in part be due to its sedentary habits, as with most other species of this lichen-feeding group.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded but probably tree lichen.



C O M M E N T S The habits and general appearance render it easy to confuse with the B. aslanga.

CNODONTES PENNINGTONIBENNETT 1954

P E N N I N G T O N ’ S B U F F


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Zambia and Tanzania south to South Africa, including KwaZulu-Natal where widespread.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of veld-types, except forests. It favours the drier areas, especially in river valleys.

S T A T U S Locally fairly common.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia species (Mimosaceae), e.g. A. karroo.

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to April, with October and February peaks.


C O M M E N T S A variable, unique species, occurring in isolated colonies from sea-level to mountains.

CRUDARIA LEROMA (WALLENGREN) 1857

S I L V E R - S P O T T E D G R E Y

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout Africa and Madagascar.

H A B I T A T Grassy, flower-bedecked, open hillsides, from sea-level to the high interior.

S T A T U S Common and widespread but usually encountered singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Vigna and Eriosema spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year with a marked mid-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S An attractive blue, typical of undisturbed meadows

CUPIDOPSIS CISSUS

(GODART) 1824

CUPIDOPSIS CISSUS CISSUS (GODART) 1824

C O M M O N M E A D O W B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Ethiopia south to the Eastern Cape Province. It is widely distributed in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open grasslands sometimes with scattered trees.

S T A T U S Far less common than its congener cissus but equally widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Rhynchosia puberula and Eriosema spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year with a mid-summer peak.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S : 3:1:0:1:3 = 8

C O M M E N T S A delicate, attractive little blue.

CUPIDOPSIS JOBATES JOBATES (HOPFFER) 1855

T A I L E D M E A D O W B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Restricted to the Eastern Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal, occurring mainly over a broad band of the coastline.

H A B I T A T Forests and open bush.

S T A T U S Although rather rarely encountered, its sedentary habits no doubt impart a biased impression, as they have been picked up in quite large numbers where they congregate in certain trees feeding upon scale-insect secretions.

F O O D P L A N T S Unrecorded - possibly feed on scale insects.


C O N S E R V A T I O N status 5:5:3:5:5 = 23

C O M M E N T S Particular specimens, identifiable by wing chips, etc., and seen feeding at scale insects on branches of an Acacia tree in Itala Game Reserve, stayed put and never moved away for some days, despite a thunderstorm delivering a deluge during the period of observation.

DELONEURA MILLARI MILLARI TRIMEN 1906

M I L L A R ’ S B U F F


DESMOLYCAENA MAZOENSISTRIMEN 1898

[CHLOROSELAS MAZOENSIS (TRIMEN) 1898]

P U R P L E G E M

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, reaching the northern parts of the former Transvaal and KwaZulu-Natal.


S T A T U S Rather rare but once its localities are discovered, may be quite common at times among hilltopping butterflies.

F O O D P L A N T S Probably Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Most records are during spring, i.e. September and October. There appears to be a smaller second brood towards the end of summer.

U N D E R S I D E


C O M M E N T S Its fondness for playing about trees on the highest points of hills makes locating this species rather easier.


DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA) ANTALUS

(HOPFFER) 1855

[VIRACHOLA ANTALUS (HOPFFER) 1855]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout the Afrotropical region, the Middle East and Indian Ocean offshore islands.

H A B I T A T Occurs in most habitats. In KwaZulu-Natal it concentrates along a wide coastal belt.

S T A T U S In season common and widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Distributed among at least eight plant families, including spp. of Schotia, Cassia and Bauhinia (Caesalpiniaceae), Baphia and Crotolaria (Fabaceae), and Acacia (Mimosaceae). Also found breeding on Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Sapindaceae) in KwaZulu-Natal.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with early and late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S Females wander about at random, while males establish territories near the summits of shrubs or trees and play about.

B R O W N P L A Y B O Y


DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA) DARIAVES

HEWITSON 1877

[VIRACHOLA DARIAVES (HEWITSON) 1877]

D I S T R I B U T I O N : Eastern Africa from the Kenya coast south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T : A forest denizen, usually frequenting the sides of trees on forest edges or in clearings.

S T A T U S : Scarce to rare.

F O O D P L A N T S Farming near Mtubatuba in Zululand, Errol Harrison was the first person in our region to locate the foodplant and to breed this lovely rarity. This turned out to be Deinbollia oblongifolia (Sapindaceae). Larsen (1991) records Brachystegia (Caesalpiniaceae) pods as a foodplant.

F L I G H T P E R I O D : Year round, peaking between July and November.


C O M M E N T S The black forewings and red hind wings render this butterfly intriguingly unique and it will always be an exciting experience for any collector to encounter it in its forest home.

B L A C K - A N D - O R A N G E P L A Y B O Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region and Madagascar.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and open woodland.

S T A T U S In season may be fairly common but is locally distributed.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide variety of spp. encompassing seven plant families, e.g. Ximenia (Olacaceae); Schotia (Caesalpiniaceae) and Acacia (Mimosaceae). In our area Syzygium cordatum (Myrtaceae) is commonly used.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with preponderance in May.


C O M M E N T S A collector, I. Migdoll, once found a hundred or more pupae of this species on one S. cordatum tree growing in a business area of Durban. Adults are not often seen.

DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA) DINOCHARES

GROSE-SMITH 1887

[VIRACHOLA DINOCHARES (GROSE-SMITH) 1887]

A P R I C O T P L A Y B O Y


DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA)DINOMENES DINOMENES

GROSE-SMITH 1887

[VIRACHOLA DINOMENES (GROSE-SMITH) 1887]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal follows the distribution of dinochares, i.e. along the coast from about Umkomaas northwards, fanning out somewhat in northern Zululand.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and dry forest edges.

S T A T U S Generally considered rare but more prevalent in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Not recorded in our region but further north in Africa, Deinbollia sp. fruit is used (Sapindaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D January to July with a marked peak in May.


C O M M E N T S The fiery orange wing colour of the male distinguishes this species from its similar congeners. Males are often flushed from bush edges by beating the vegetation

O R A N G E P L A Y B O Y


DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA) DIOCLES

HEWITSON 1869

[VIRACHOLA DIOCLES HEWITSON 1869]

D I S T R I B U T I O N From central Africa south to KwaZulu-Natal and the Transkei. It is predominantly coastal.

H A B I T A T More forest-orientated that its close congeners.

S T A T U S Fairly common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S A similar wide range of plant species as with its congeners but in our region mainly uses Bauhinia galpinii (Caesalpiniaceae) and Millettia grandis (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, peaking in late-summer and winter.


C O M M E N T S Males are strongly territorial and often perch high up on the leaves of trees, pursuing interlopers and returning to perches just vacated.

O R A N G E - B A R R E D P L A Y B O Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Discovered near Hluhluwe in Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, just over 50 years ago. It has been found to occur through Zimbabwe and Malawi, up to southern Tanzania.


S T A T U S Tolerably common in season, much given to hilltopping.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia caffra (Mimosaceae). Found to shelter within galls occurring on the trees.

F L I G H T P E R I O D April to November, seemingly scarce or absent during mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Males of D. penningtoni van Son are not always separable from this species on morphology and, seeing there are no other differences, it is quite likely that penningtoni is only a polymorphic form of vansoni. Occurring from the Tugela River northwards, vansoni is most frequently met with on rather tall trees on hill summits, where they consort with the usual hilltopping butterfly fraternity. Their drab colours, small size and keeping largely out of reach, no doubt account for this fairly common butterfly being overlooked for so long.

DEUDORIX (VIRACHOLA) VANSONI

PENNINGTON 1948

V A N S O N ’ S P L A Y B O Y


DURBANIA AMAKOSA AMAKOSA TRIMEN 1862

DURBANIA AMAKOSA ALBESCENS QUICKELBERGE 1981

DURBANIA AMAKOSA FLAVIDA QUICKELBERGE 1981

DURBANIA AMAKOSA AYRESI VAN SON 1941

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, occurring from the Eastern Cape Province through KwaZulu-Natal and into the eastern parts of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Lichen-covered rocks, especially those on hills situated at elevations which catch mists.

S T A T U S Rather localized, occurring in limited pockets of varying densities. Fairly common where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Rock lichen.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Adults are on the wing for only a precise and limited period of from one to two months. Emerges earlier at low altitudes, sometimes as early as October, but at high altitudes in the Drakensberg may only emerge in December.


C O M M E N T S A fascinating butterfly whose whole life is spent on rock surfaces. Adults may be difficult to locate due to their general inactivity and perfect camouflage when perched on rocks. This restriction to limited areas reduces gene-flow, allowing a proliferation of geographical races, with no less than five subspecies occurring in KZN. D. a. albescens is coastal (Margate

A M A K O S A R O C K S I T T E R

to Umtamvuna), flavida is subcoastal (Shongweni to Ngoye), nominate amakosa is near the southern Drakensberg (Kokstad), natalensis occupies the central midlands, and in the northern Drakensberg ayresi van Son of the former Transvaal occurs (Quickelberge 1981).


DURBANIA LIMBATA TRIMEN & BOWKER 1887

D I S T R I B U T I O N Limited to localized areas about the KwaZulu-Natal uplands, with Mooi River situated in an area of particular abundance.

H A B I T A T Lichen-covered rocks.

S T A T U S Not easy to locate but where found may be more abundant than D. amakosa.

F O O D P L A N T S Rock lichen.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Has a curious late-summer single brood, at its peak during March.


C O M M E N T S An intriguing species with its unique appearance, limited distribution and late flight period.

N A T A L R O C K S I T T E R


EICHOCHRYSOPS HIPPOCRATES (FABRICIUS) 1793

D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout Africa and Madagascar.

H A B I T A T Moist spots, especially the margins of rivers, streams, etc.

S T A T U S Tolerably common in favourable areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Rumex and Polygonum spp. (Polygonaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with an April-May peak.


C O M M E N T S An intriguing, unmistakable little species with the contrasting white tips to the otherwise dark wings of the male.

W H I T E - T I P P E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


EICHOCHRYSOPS MESSAPUS MESSAPUS

(GODART) 1824

EICHOCHRYSOPS MESSAPUS MAHALLOKOAENA (WELLENGREN) 1857

D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia to South Africa. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Occurs within grassy areas with or without a cover of scattered trees.

S T A T U S Quite common at certain times and places.

F O O D P L A N T S Thesium spp (Santalaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a late-summer peak.

C U P R E O U S B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


C O M M E N T S Nominate messapus, i.e. the form without the conspicuous fulvous-yellow on the male forewing upperside, is found in the extreme southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal so that most of the province is tenanted by the form mahallokoaena, which bears the forewing suffusion. However, the extent of this feature varies from being barely visible to covering nearly the entire forewing area and even spilling over onto the hindwing. Overlap in the populations of each form suggests that we are dealing with a genetic morph, with some geographical restriction in its expression, rather than conventional subspecies.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal concentrated mainly along the coast.

H A B I T A T Open grassy areas usually in the vicinity of bushy tracts or forest.

S T A T U S Moderately common at suitable patches in the right season.

F O O D P L A N T S Crotolaria, Vigna, Rhynchosia spp. (Fabaceae).



C O M M E N T S The butterfly is a feature of the thickly grassed coastal hills and is especially prevalent when Vigna flowers are in season.

EUCHRYSOPS BARKERI (TRIMEN) 1893

B A R K E R ’ S S M O K Y B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Zambia south to South Africa. It is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Essentially a grassland species, penetrating bushveld as well.

S T A T U S Local but not uncommon where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium and Salvia spp. (Lamiaceae) also Vigna spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout most of the year, with a spring flush.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 2:1:2:1:3 =9

C O M M E N T S Occurs in colonies, as with Lepidochrysops spp.

EUCHRYSOPS DOLOROSA (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

S A B I S M O K Y B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout Africa and offshore Indian Ocean islands.


S T A T U S Commonest of the Euchrysops spp.

F O O D P L A N T S Canavalia, Medicago, Sphenostylis, Vigna spp. (Fabaceae) and Psidium spp. (Myrtaceae).



C O M M E N T S An inconspicuous species. It is one of the commonest of these medium-sized blues.

EUCHRYSOPS MALATHANA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

C O M M O N S M O K Y B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa and offshore Indian Ocean islands.

H A B I T A T Occupies the same areas as E. barkeri but also ranges to more inland and drier areas, especially in the former Transvaal.


F O O D P L A N T S Rhynchosia and Vigna spp. (Fabaceae).



C O M M E N T S Similar to and easy to confuse with barkeri, but the possession of two orange-suffused eyespots on the hindwing margin, in place of the one in its congener, marks osiris at a glance.

EUCHRYSOPS OSIRIS OSIRIS (HOPFFER) 1855

O S I R I S S M O K Y B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa and into the southern parts of Europe, Arabia, etc.

H A B I T A T No specific habitat; generally about open grassy terrain.

S T A T U S Occurs sparingly and well dispersed.

F O O D P L A N T S Carcasson (1995) lists Indigofera (Fabaceae) and Heliotropium (Boraginaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Found flying mainly in summer, with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Its beautiful distinctive underside is the eye-catching feature of this otherwise rather drab little butterfly.

FREYERIA TROCHYLUS (FREYER) 1843

[CHILADES TROCHYLUS (FREYER) 1843]

G R A S S J E W E L B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa; confined to the eastern areas of the Eastern Cape Province, adjacent KwaZulu-Natal and the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Along mountain streams and other swampy areas.

S T A T U S May be fairly common in limited localities.

F O O D P L A N T S Alchemilla capensis (Rosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year, with a mid-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S A striking montane species, with its unique light blue colouring.

HARPENDYREUS NOQUASA (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

M A R S H B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, in similar areas to H. noquasa but extending further west, only marginally entering KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Similar to H. noquasa.

S T A T U S Local and not uncommon in suitable spots.

F O O D P L A N T S Alchemilla (Rosaceae) and Mentha (Lamiaceae) spp.



C O M M E N T S Both H. tsomo and H. noquasa is a pair of closely related species, the one being the geographical counterpart of the other and they may thus be termed vicarious species.

HARPENDYREUS TSOMO(TRIMEN) 1868

T S O M O B L U E

U N D E R S I D E


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Central Africa south to South Africa, where it is confined to the eastern littoral as far south as the Transkei.

H A B I T A T Forest edges and surrounding more open bush.

S T A T U S Merely from general impressions over the years, this species seems to have dwindled in numbers and in the places in which it occurs. Although not rare, coming across one is still an exciting experience.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but more prevalent during the second half of summer.


C O M M E N T S A special, lovely butterfly; the length of the tail in females is intriguing.

HYPOLYCAENA BUXTONI BUXTONI

HEWITSON 1874

B U X T O N ’ S H A I R S T R E A K


D I S T R I B U T I O From Central Africa south to the northern limits of the former Transvaal and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Subtropical bushveld, preferring the drier aspects and in KwaZulu-Natal found often along watercourses (often dry) where the foodplant grows.

S T A T U S Found only in a few localized spots but not uncommon where found.

F O O D P L A N T S Olax dissitiflora (Olacaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O : Throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S The occurrence of this beautiful species in KwaZulu-Natal was shrouded in mystery until Mickey Cooper chanced upon a worn specimen in winter along a watercourse north of Josini towards the approaches to the Ingwavuma turn-off. It has been located subsequently in and about Ndumo by R. Kyle. The three most southerly localities are well south of the distribution of the foodplant Olax dissitiflora. Also, the one on the coast at St. Lucia estuary is ecologically out of place and was made by Pennington himself, which he does not mention in his 1963 checklist.

HYPOLYCAENA (HEMIOLAUS) CAECULUS CAECULUS

(HOPPFFER) 1855

[HEMIOLAUS CAECULUS CAECULUS (HOPPFFER) 1855]

A Z U R E H A I R S T R E A K


D I S T R I B U T I O N Only known from limited localities in Malawi, eastern Zimbabwe and northern Zululand.

H A B I T A T The False Bay forest, although dense, is only a xeric version of typical lush rainforest and appears to be rather unique. It is here that lochmophila lives.

S T A T U S Extremely local and rare.




C O M M E N T S In KwaZulu-Natal, the only known population that shows clear consistent characters attributable to lochmophila is the one located in the False Bay forest, which is the type-locality as determined by its discoverer, K.M. Pennington. These differences of wing topography require careful scrutiny and redefinition, otherwise confusion easily follows, which is what appears to be the present situation.

HYPOLYCAENA LOCHMOPHILA TITE 1967

C O A S T A L H A I R S T R E A K


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over sub-Saharan Africa and offshore Indian Ocean islands.

H A B I T A T Forest edges and the more luxuriant bushy types.

S T A T U S Widespread rather than common.

F O O D P L A N T S Carcasson lists species of nine plant families. Ximenia americana (Olocaceae) (recorded by T.H.E. Jackson in Kenya) occurs in northern Zululand. Clerodendron glabrum (Verbenaceae) is probably the one used most frequently in our region.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, increasing in frequency towards late summer.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T Us 2:1:0:0:1 = 4

C O M M E N T S It is seasonally common, the wandering females most often seen. Males usually play about the upper reaches of trees.

HYPOLYCAENA PHILIPPUS PHILIPPUS (FABRICIUS) 1793

P U R P L E - B R O W N H A I R S T R E A K


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, penetrating KwaZulu-Natal but only as far south as the Tugela basin.

H A B I T A T Somewhat dry dense bushveld, especially in low-lying areas.

S T A T U S Considered rare in KwaZulu-Natal, occurring very locally. Only on one occasion was a good haul of specimens made by collectors, all in the vicinity of just one tree near Pelindaba not far from Kosi Bay.

F O O D P L A N T S Ximemia caffra and americana (Olacaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Occurs at odd times during the year but the main flush is from September to November.


C O M M E N T S Many years may elapse before meeting up with this local, quite unique species in KwaZulu-Natal. G.H. Burn, who lived near Weenen and the Tugela River during the years 1902-6, caught butterflies for museums and recorded his catches. These notes were kept in a diary which I have in my possession. Interestingly he made regular, frequent and almost daily catches of pallene at certain seasons. It would be interesting to determine whether this is still possible today in the same area.

IOLAUS (APHNIOLAUS) PALLENE (WALLENGREN) 1857

S A F F R O N S A P P H I R E


IOLAUS (ARGIOLAUS) SILAS SILAS (WESTWOOD) 1851

IOLAUS (ARGIOLAUS) SILARUS SILARUS

DRUCE 1885

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Democratic Republic of Congo/Kenya south to South Africa, terminating in the Eastern Cape Province around Somerset East. Nominate silas occurs from this town eastwards through the Transkei into southern KwaZulu-Natal up to the Durban area where populations intergrade with subspecies silarus up to about Empangeni. Silarus in its typical form only occurs from about the Umfolozi River northwards.

H A B I T A T Periphery of bush/forest or riverine gallery forest. It is prone to hilltopping later in the day.

S T A T U S Its appearance is seasonal, especially about mid-summer when it can be tolerably common in particular areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Various species of the Loranthaceae. One of the favourites is Erianthemum dregei; also Loranthus elegans and Viscum obovatum (Viscaceae).



COMMENTS Various taxonomic arrangements have been accorded to silas and silarus to account for the variability in this notoriously difficult group. My reading of our extensive material of both

A Z U R E H A I R S T R E A K

forms inclines me to the most generally held view and that we are dealing with subspecies, although even here the situation does not rest comfortably but at least comes closest to reconciling the facts. Over KwaZulu-Natal, there is a geographically based shift in characters between silas and silarus, with no apparent restriction of the forms to different habitats. Differences in the underside markings vary to the extent that overall they become unusable. Other characters of wing pattern are equally elusive in application. Finally, the sympatric occurrence of the two forms only demonstrates intergradation within one species.


C U P R E O U S B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N A remarkably disjunct range, having only been found at East London (Eastern Cape Province) and Durban. Moving north, a big gap ensues before this species again reappears, as another subspecies in coastal Tanzania and Kenya.

H A B I T A T Coastal forest and here restricted to the presence of its parasitic foodplant Tieghemia quinquenervia.

S T A T U S Generally scarce to rare, with occasional population flushes from certain trees.

F O O D P L A N T S Tieghemia quinquenervia (Loranthaceae).

FLIGHT PERIOD July to March. At East London, adults commenced emerging from pupae in November, continuing until March.

IOLAUS (EPAMERA) AEMULUS AEMULUS

TRIMEN 1895


C O M M E N T S Adults are seldom seen and almost all the specimens in collections are bred from pupae found on trees. A chance outing during mid- afternoon to Cove Rock just west of East London, uncovered the possible reason for the species apparent rarity. There upon the stunted trees of coast dune bush upon a high knoll, were numbers of adults playing about during a stiff easterly wind. Many visits to the same spot during the calm, pleasant midday hours revealed no sign of the species. This late arrival on high points by hilltopping species is not, however, unique to aemulus.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region, reaching its most southerly point in northern Zululand.

H A B I T A T Bushveld; much given to hilltopping, usually arriving only in the early afternoon.

S T A T U S Scarce and local, and only particular hilltops feature the species. Mkuze Game Reserve to False Bay contains the most likely spots.

F O O D P L A N T S Loranthus and Tapinanthus spp. (Loranthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to October.


C O M M E N T S An intriguing, attractive species, always exciting to encounter. Females wander about at random and are rarely seen.

IOLAUS (EPAMERA) ALIENUS ALIENUS

TRIMEN 1898

B R O W N - L I N E S A P P H I R E


N A T A L Y E L L O W - B A N D E D S A P P H I R E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Found in several Central African countries, while the subspecies natalica is confined to northern KwaZulu-Natal, from the Tugela basin northwards over a broad coastal belt.

H A B I T A T A drier more open type of bush/forest.

S T A T U S Generally regarded as rare, but I once had the pleasure of observing at least 20 individuals all together on one flowering bunch of its foodplant.

IOLAUS (EPAMERA) DIAMETRA KARSH 1895

IOLAUS (EPAMERA) DIAMETRA NATALICA

VÁRI 1976

F O O D P L A N T S Actinanthella wyliei (Loranthaceae). At False Bay it was breeding on Tapinanthus gracilis (Loranthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to January, peaking in October.


C O M M E N T S This stunning Iolaus is vulnerable, mainly from the destruction of the foodplant occasioned by collectors ripping off the fragile, brittle foodplant in search of larvae or pupae, this being an easier option to acquiring specimens than by collecting adults.


R E D - L I N E S A P P H I R E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread from Kenya/Uganda south to South Africa, reaching the Eastern Cape Province as far south as the hills near Adelaide. It is fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal, mainly along a broad coastal strip.

H A B I T A T Coastal forest and the denser bushveld.

S T A T U S Although quite widespread, not often seen. It may be more frequently observed about the trees on high points among the hilltopping fraternity.

F O O D P L A N T S A variety of species of the parasitic plant family Loranthaceae, e.g. Tapinanthus kraussianus and oleifolius, and Tieghemia quinquenervia.

IOLAUS (EPAMERA) SIDUS TRIMEN 1864



C O M M E N T S A conspicuous, attractive butterfly, usually seen playing about and alighting on trees, usually high up and out of reach.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It reaches the southern limits of its range in north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Hilly bushveld.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but rather localized.

F O O D P L A N T S Various spp. of Loranthaceae, mainly of the genus Tapinanthus.

F L I G H T P E R I O D During most of the year with an October - March maximum

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Records inadequate.

C O M M E N T S The discovery of this species in the Itala Game Reserve, in exactly the same ecological surroundings as on the Magaliesberg mountains of the former Transvaal, where the ridges of quartz are festooned with Stamvrug Englerophytum magalismontanum, came as a fascinating discovery since the butterfly is quite common in these situations on the Magaliesberg.

IOLAUS (IOLAPHILUS) TRIMENI WALLENGREN 1875

T R I M E N ’ S S A P P H I R E


W H I T E S P O T T E D S A P P H I R E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N This species enjoys a very limited known range, with a north-south axis of about 50 km, i.e. from False Bay to the Mkuze Game Reserve and up to the Lebombo mountains nearby.

H A B I T A T Although termed Kwambonambi coastal grassland and forest, the vegetation about the western shores of False Bay is a drier, more stunted form of forest, perhaps best described as bush. The other lulua localities fall within two Lowveld types, i.e. Maputaland and Lebombo.

S T A T U S The species is not easy to locate even within the correct area and at the right season. Unless particular flowers attract specimens, they usually remain out of sight, perched high up on the leaves of trees.

F O O D P L A N T S In November 1994, Steve Collins made the notable discovery of a lulua larva in the False Bay bush. The parasitic plant it was found on turned out to be Tieghemia bolusii (Loranthaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly October to December with a further record in March.

IOLAUS (PSEUDIOLAUS) LULUA (RILEY) 1944


COMMENTS One of our most precious butterflies fully justifying every effort to ensure its continued existence, as it is very definitely vulnerable. As with I. diametra natalica, its Achilles heel is its foodplant, which is easily dislodged from the host-plant. This detached vegetation is then looked through in comfort, by individual collectors, and the larvae or pupae found, yielding perfect specimens in due course. A puzzling aspect of lulua is that its foodplant occurs far and wide, and in no way could account for the limited distribution of the species. Other constraints must be at play, making this an ideal research project for a postgraduate student. The recent discovery of lulua in Ndumo by that canny collector Robert Kyle indicates a wider range for lulua than suspected.


IOLAUS (STUGETA) BOWKERI TRIMEN 1864

IOLAUS (STUGETA) BOWKERI BOWKERI

TRIMEN 1864

[STUGETA BOWKERI BOWKERI TRIMEN 1864]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread in KwaZulu-Natal, indeed South Africa and the Afrotropical region generally.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of bushy country from sea-level to the far interior. It prefers the drier parts.

S T A T U S May be fairly common at times but is usually quite thinly distributed.

F O O D P L A N T S Viscum (Viscaceae), Ximenia (Olacaceae) and Loranthus (Loranthaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year, with a spring flush.


C O M M E N T S A typical Iolaus in appearance and habits, quite widespread but not common. Due to a high degree of individual and geographical variation, no meaningful separation was possible between the two subspecies allegedly occurring in KwaZulu-Natal.

B O W K E R ’ S S A P P H I R E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, including KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Widespread – no particular preferences.

S T A T U S Common and widespread, usually encountered singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Larvae are carnivorous, often found feeding on the immatures of Homopteran bugs.



C O M M E N T S Widespread and dispersed, i.e. with little to no concentration of numbers. Males often sport about trees, while females flutter about at random searching for insect colonies upon which they prey.

LACHNOCNEMA BIBULUS (FABRICIUS) 1793

C O M M O N W O O L L Y L E G S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Uganda and Kenya south to South Africa; through KwaZulu-Natal to the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Widespread but would appear to favour open grassy areas among trees and bushes.

S T A T U S Common but less so than its congener L. bibulus; also more inclined to clump, forming colonies.

F O O D P L A N T S Although not properly documented, likely to be carnivorous in a similar fashion to L. bibulus.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with a prominent October peak.


C O M M E N T S Occurs at random; quite often found dead floating in swimming pools.

LACHNOCNEMA DURBANITRIMEN & BOWKER 1887

D ’ U R B A N ’ S W O O L L Y L E G S


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout much of the Old World.

H A B I T A T Tolerates nearly all habitats.


F O O D P L A N T S An extremely wide variety of leguminous plants (Fabaceae), including green table peas, feeding within the pod.



C O M M E N T S Ubiquitous, often encountered in flowering lucerne fields.

LAMPIDES BOETICUS (LINNAEUS) 1767

L U C E R N E B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, where occurring from the Western Cape Province to the more southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Colonies are situated in broken, rocky veld on rising ground, often on the sides and near the summits of koppies and ridges, where there are small valleys dotted with scattered trees and aloes.

S T A T Us Colonies are few and far between, with the species occurring in moderate numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium sp. (probably obovatum) and Plectranthus spp. (Lamiaceae); also Selago spp. (Selaginaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to March with two peaks: October-November and again in February-March.


C O M M E N T S The bright, glittering blue colour of the male makes it the showiest species of the genus. Flying fast over broken ground renders it difficult to pursue.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS ASTERIS (GODART) 1824

B R I L L I A N T B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Only known from two small areas of upper KwaZulu-Natal (Blue Bank) and the Potchefstroom region.

H A B I T A T Not recorded but doubtless grassveld.

S T A T U S Ultra rare and only known from three specimens, two of which were caught in KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Found on the 21 September 1870 (both KwaZulu-Natal specimens).

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Possibly extinct.

C O M M E N T S An intriguing mystery surrounds this blue. As most of the Lepidichrysops spp. are extremely local and restricted in range, compared to the vast areas over which they may possibly occur, the task of combing such areas during a limited period becomes well-nigh impossible, and luck therefore plays a part in the discovery of these insects. An unequivocal declaration of the extinction of this butterfly species can thus only be an educated guess.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS HYPOPOLIA(TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

M O R A N T ’ S B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N South Africa, where only found in restricted areas of KwaZulu-Natal and the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Limited to high-altitude areas of a rather small portion of KwaZulu-Natal, centered mainly about Howick, Mooi River and Estcourt, where it occurs in rocky grassveld, sometimes with scattered Acacia trees, etc.

S T A T U S Not uncommon in its local colonies.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium spp. (probably obovatum) (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to December.


C O M M E N T S A drab, brown little species, appearing bluish at times on the wing.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS IGNOTA (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

Z U L U B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to South Africa, where fairly widespread but local and scarce in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy habitats on rising ground, usually with some rocky and scattered tree associations.

S T A T U S Distributed in local colonies in which only a few individuals may be seen during any one visit.

F O O D P L A N T S Salvia (Lamiaceae) and Selago (Scrophulariaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to March, with November and January peaks.


C O M M E N T S The paler coastal form L. k. leucomacula is found from Margate to the Umtamvuna River and further on into Pondoland (Transkei).

K E T S I B L U E

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS KETSI COTTRELL 1965

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS KETSI LEUCOMACULA

HENNING & HENNING 1994


D I S T R I B U T I O N Malawi south to southern Africa, where widely distributed.

H A B I T A T Wooded grassy rocky areas.

S T A T U S Our commonest and most widespread Lepidochrysops species.

F O O D P L A N T S Lantana sp. (Verbenaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year, with a marked October peak, tailing off gradually and symmetrically until May.


C O M M E N T S Especially fond of dry open bushy tracts in warm valleys.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS PATRICIA(TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

P A T R I C I A B L U E


E S T C O U R T B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to KwaZulu-Natal where mainly restricted to a high plateau from the Howick area to Mooi River and approaching Estcourt.

H A B I T A T Found on the highest rocky, grassy hills and mountaintops of this area.

S T A T U SGenerally scarce but at times may be tolerably common.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium obovatum (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Largely confined to October and November.


C O M M E N T S One of our most precious butterflies requiring careful monitoring.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS PEPHREDO (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1889


D I S T R I B U T I O N Over most of Africa from Democratic Republic of Congo southwards. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open grassy bushveld. Often found on top of high ridges or koppies.

S T A T U S Almost as common as L. patricia.

F O O D P L A N T S Lantana spp. (Verbenaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year, with an October to December peak.



LEPIDOCHRYSOPS PLEBEIA PLEBEIA

(BUTLER) 1898

T W I N - S P O T B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to KwaZulu-Natal and the former Transvaal, where its known colonies are few and far between.

H A B I T A T Favours grassy, rocky hillsides under scattered trees in association with flowering Becium.

S T A T U S Very local but may be common if looked for at just the right season.

F O O D P L A N T S Swanepoel (1953) records females ovipositing on Becium sp. flowers.

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to December, with the peak emergence in late October to early November.


C O M M E N T S One of our rarer blues, the survival of which requires surveillance. A strong colony was found near the entrance to the Itala Game Reserve.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS PROCERA(TRIMEN) 1893

P O T C H E F S T R O O M B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely limited to small areas in KwaZulu-Natal and the eastern parts of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T High points of mountains among grass and rocks.

S T A T U S Rare in KwaZulu-Natal, only two specimens known from a mountain top near Vryheid.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium sp. (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T period September to November.


C O M M E N T S A visit to Mount Nqwibi near Vryheid on 26 October 1983 in order to confirm the presence of this blue in KwaZulu-Natal proved fruitless. Few other butterflies were seen, so perhaps all the mining activities about the mountain may have contributed to its demise.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS SWANEPOELI (PENNINGTON) 1948

S W A N E P O E L ’ S B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to South Africa along the eastern parts, including the former Transvaal, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Grassy hillsides.

S T A T U S Colonies may vary in number from rare to plentiful and also change from year to year. Appear to be stronger in numbers in areas of shorter grass, as in the season following a grass burn.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium obovatum (Lamiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October and November are the peak months.


C O M M E N T S The rust-tinged underwing spotting and the dark violaceous upperside of the male give this elusive blue a special appeal, much romanticized by the author D.A. Swanepoel (1953), resulting in the vernacular name of King Blue.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS TANTALUS(TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

K I N G B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, inhabiting most of the countries of this region.

H A B I T A T Inhabiting most of the areas tenanted by L. pephredo, where they often fly together.

S T A T U S Almost common about hilltops, where they play about.

F O O D P L A N T S Becium, Salvia (Lamiaceae) and Selago (Scrophulariaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D October and November.


C O M M E N T S KwaZulu-Natal specimens of this species often possess a variable amount of blue scaling over the bases of the wing uppersides. On the summit of Mount Arrochar near Mooi River, this species and pephredo are particularly common. As they cavort together it is an interesting exercise to find ways of recognizing each species on the wing.

LEPIDOCHRYSOPS VARIABILIS COTTRELL 1965

V A R I A B L E B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa, south to the Transkei. Widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open scrub woodland, bushveld, rocky valleys; wherever its succulent foodplant occurs.

S T A T U S Widespread but not common.

F O O D P L A N T S Colyledon, Crassula and Kalanchoe spp. (Crassulaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S An attractive, unique species. The specific distinctness of this species from L. lara is questionable as there is a broad belt of intergrading populations between the two forms from Port Elizabeth up to Lesotho.

LEPTOMYRINA (GONATOMYRINA) GORGIAS GORGIAS

(STOLL) 1790

C O M M O N B L A C K - E Y E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, more concentrated towards the eastern side

H A B I T A T Liable to be found over a wide range of the mesic areas of KwaZulu-Natal, following the foodplant distribution.

S T A T U S Extremely localized to small limited areas in close proximity to its foodplants. Quite a number may be seen flying about all together, giving the impression of commonality. However, such colonies are only infrequently found.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of genera of the Crassulaceae, e.g. Cotyledon, Kalanchoe and Crassula.

F L I G H T P E R I O D May occur throughout the year.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 2:2:0:1:3= 8

C O M M E N T S A most curious, delicate and attractive little butterfly, confined to its own little world, flying slowly about and settling frequently.

LEPTOMYRINA HIRUNDO (WALLENGREN) 1857

T A I L E D B L A C K - E Y E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Similar to L. brevidentatus, but not known to enter KwaZulu-Natal until recently, when the genitalia of the specimens of Leptotes in the Durban Natural Science Museum were examined and a few from this province turned out to be of the present species.

H A B I T A T Probably similar to its congeners.

S T A T U S Obviously much rarer in KwaZulu-Natal than L. pirithous or brevidentatus.

F O O D P L A N T S Probably similar to its congeners.

F L I G H T P E R I O D December to April but probably throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S Could well be more widespread than the meagre records show. A problem is that generally collectors ignore this group, in which identification is not immediately possible, and in that the vast majority turns out to be the common and little sought after L. pirithous.

LEPTOTES BABAULTI(STEMPFFER) 1935

B A B A U L T ’ S B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Over most of sub-Saharan Africa.

H A B I T A T As with L. pirithous.

S T A T U S Follows the same distribution pattern as L. pirithous but is less common, that species being about three times commoner than brevidentatus.

F O O D P L A N T S Similar to L. pirithous.


C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Lack of sufficient data.

C O M M E N T S Impossible to identify without recourse to inspection of genitalia.

LEPTOTES BREVIDENTATUS(TITE) 1958

S H O R T - T O O T H E D B L U E


C O M M O N B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Spread over Africa and much of the Old World.

H A B I T A T Found in virtually all habitats.

S T A T U S So common and widespread that almost any planted Plumbago auriculata bush will inevitably attract a gathering of this species as it comes into flower, this being one of its foodplants.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of plant spp., ranging from lucerne to many spp. of Crotalaria, Indigofera, Sesbania and Vigna (Fabaceae), and Burkea (Caesalpiniaceae).


LEPTOTES PIRITHOUS (LINNAEUS) 1767

[LEPTOTES PIRITHOUS PIRITHOUS

(LINNAEUS) 1767]

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Nil

C O M M E N T S Known previously as Syntarucus telicanus (Lang), this little blue is as ubiquitous as they come.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed throughout Africa.

H A B I T A T Largely confined to the vicinity of the foodplant, which takes it to the edges of rivers, swamps and other low-lying areas.

S T A T U S Very local but common in its spots.

F O O D P L A N T S Sesbania sesban (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D November to June with a marked May peak.


C O M M E N T S At once identifiable by the attractive light blue of the wing upperside. The strongest colony known to me is the one in the Enseleni Nature Reserve near Richards Bay. There it is almost impossible to miss, as it hovers about and settles on the large Sesbania shrubs

LEPTOTES PULCHRA(MURRAY) 1874

S E S B A N I A B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the inland areas of South Africa.

H A B I T A T Grassy banks along streams or other similar damp localities over the KwaZulu-Natal uplands.

S T A T U S Local and rather uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Rumex lanceolatus (Polygonaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to March, with a September peak.


C O M M E N T S An intriguing, unique little copper not often encountered in KwaZulu-Natal.

LYCAENA CLARKICLARK & DICKSON 1971

E A S T E R N S O R R E L C O P P E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern side of Africa, from Kenya southwards through KwaZulu-Natal and down to East London in the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Coastal belt, following the occurrence of Ficus spp.

S T A T U S Very local but may be common about particular wild fig trees at certain times.

F O O D P L A N T S A variety of tree Ficus spp. (Moraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but emergences of the adults occur mainly at particular times, often during mid-summer or mid-winter.


C O M M E N T S A most attractive species, much sought after by collectors. Most specimens in collections stem from the collection of pupae from foodplant trees. However it is only the very occasional tree from which breeding material may be sourced, some trees bearing great numbers on rare occasions. This is all dependent on season and the degree of parasitism, which may be heavy at times. These and probably other control factors all contribute to these sporadic breeding episodes.

MYRINA DERMAPTERA (WALLENGREN) 1857

MYRINA DERMAPTERA DERMAPTERA

(WALLENGREN) 1857

L E S S E R F I G - T R E E B L U E


MYRINA SILENUS (FABRICIUS) 1775

MYRINA SILENUS FICEDULA TRIMEN 1879

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely dispersed in Africa, following the occurrence of Ficus spp.

H A B I T A T Able to penetrate most habitats if suitable Ficus trees are present.

S T A T U S Occurs sparingly as adults, although potentially widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S A variety of Ficus spp. (Moraceae), including the cultivated fig (F. carica). It is attracted to gardens by the presence of the Tickey Creeper (F. pumila).

F L I G H T period Throughout the year, with a marked summer preponderance.


C O M M E N T S A different shade of blue from that of its congener M. dermaptera but equally striking, coupled with the long twisted tails and cryptic underside.

F I G - T R E E B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Known only from a few localities within a fairly limited area of the KwaZulu-Natal uplands centered about Karkloof.

H A B I T A T Tall rank vegetation consisting mainly of coarse grass and a tangle of lesser herbs and small shrubs. Colonies occupy areas on the steep sides of hills near stream beds.

S T A T U S Colonies are very restricted in size and, depending on the season, numbers may vary from rare to fairly plentiful. The most seen on one outing has been 22 individuals recorded at Karkloof. Usually less than ten may be encountered or more often none at all.

F O O D P L A N T S Indigofera woodii (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D March to April.


C O M M E N T S The facies, habitat, flight period and distribution of this lovely species are all unique. The butterfly has remained little known and confined to one small locality for well-nigh 100 years. Despite the attentions of numerous collectors, the colony has held its own remarkably well. One reason may be inaccessibility. Moving about in the tall matted vegetation is difficult and unpleasant. It is only recently have three other localities for this species been discovered, one as far away as Nkandla. I have little doubt that more localities will be found about this high-rainfall area.

ORACHRYSOPS ARIADNE(BUTLER) 1898

K A R K L O O F B L U E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Confined to South Africa, where widespread.

H A B I T A T Grasslands, through a wide range of altitudes, from the coast to the mountains, but favours the KwaZulu-Natal uplands.

S T A T U S Quite common in season but localized in spaced-out colonies.

F O O D P L A N T S Indigofera spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to about May. It has been found on the wing as early as August.

CO N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 3:2:1:2:3 = 11

C O M M E N T S Henning & Henning (1994) have broken up the lacrimosa complex into a plethora of species of which three are reputed to occur in KwaZulu-Natal. Attempts to define these taxa and trace the ranges of each have proved unsatisfactory working from available material. Until these anomalies are cleared up the taxonomy will be left as is.

W O L K B E R G B L U E[ R E S T L E S S B L U E , N O S Y B L U E

& G R I Z Z L E D B L U E ]

ORACHRYSOPS LACRIMOSA (BETHUNE-BAKER) 1923

[ORACHRYSOPS LACRIMOSA (BETHUNE-BAKER) 1923 &

ORACHRYSOPS NASUTUS REMUS HENNING & HENNING 1994 &

ORACHRYSOPS SUBRAVUS HENNING & HENNING 1994]


D W A R F B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa.; more widespread than B. metophis.

H A B I T A T Open grassy areas but favouring broken, rocky ground or dry stream beds.

S T A T U S Local but not uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Exomis spp. (Chenopodiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S A minute species and as it flies close to the ground is easily overlooked or mistaken for a fly.

ORAIDIUM BARBERAE (TRIMEN) 1868


ORNIPHOLIDOTOS PEUCETIA(HEWITSON) 1866

ORNIPHOLIDOTOS PEUCETIA PENNINGTONI

(RILEY) 1944

D I S T R I B U T I O N Mainly eastern African, from Uganda south to northern coastal KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Strictly a forest butterfly, occasionally flying about the periphery.

S T A T U S Very local and generally rare. Appreciable numbers of this species only seen once at Enseleni Nature Reserve in November.

F O O D P L A N T S Listed by Carcasson (1995) as algae (Cyanophyta).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly out in mid-summer, odd specimens emerging a little later.


C O M M E N T S This intriguing, sought-after rarity spends long periods perched on low vegetation. Its flight is slow but it may ascend to a fair height, as it floats about in a seemingly aimless manner.

P E N N I N G T O N ’ S G L A S S W I N G


D I S T R I B U T I O N Kenya south to Pondoland (Transkei). It occurs mainly along the coast in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forests and fringing dense bush; may follow riverine bush into drier areas but not very far from the coast.

S T A T U S Common to almost abundant at times.

F O O D P L A N T S Tree lichen. It has also been observed ovipositing on damp, mossy banks.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Mainly during summer, emerging late October.


C O M M E N T S Flutters weakly about forests, usually flying at some elevation.

PENTILA TROPICALIS TROPICALIS (DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

S P O T T E D B U F F



H A B I T A T From bushveld to forest margins, with no particular preferences.

S T A T U S Generally absent to scarce but may suddenly swarm at odd intervals and places.

F O O D P L A N T S No definite data.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Flies mainly during the summer months.


C O M M E N T S A rather unique blue, not often seen in KwaZulu-Natal and liable to be encountered anywhere over the warmer parts.

PSEUDONACADUBA SICHELA SICHELA (WALLENGREN) 1857

D U S K Y B L U E


SPINDASIS APELLES (OBERTHÜR) 1878

[CIGARITIS APELLES (OBERTHÜR) 1878]

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Kenya southwards to Mozambique, just penetrating the adjacent areas of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and coastal woodland.

S T A T U S Thus far only two records exist; the first from Lower Mkuze in 1983 and the second at Kosi Bay in 1998.

F O O D P L A N T S No records.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Found in KwaZulu-Natal in August and October.


COMMENTS As Lower Mkuze is nearly 100 km from the Mozambique border and this small Lycaenid would not be expected to wander far afield, it seems that this Spindasis sp. will probably be found to occur more extensively than present records indicate. The very presence of this species in KwaZulu-Natal has been regarded as dubious in certain quarters and that the specimens caught are only part of the spectrum of individual variation within S. mozambica. Conclusive research is needed as it may emerge that apelles sensu lato is not specifically distinct from mozambica anyway, the differences perhaps geographical in origin.

R U S T Y B A R


SPINDASIS ELLA (HEWITSON) 1865

[CIGARITIS ELLA (HEWITSON) 1865]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Kenya to KwaZulu-Natal.



F O O D P L A N T S Given by Pringle et al. (1994) as Ximemia caffra (Olacaceae) and by Clarke & Dickson (1971) as an Acacia sp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a marked October peak.


C O M M E N T S Usually found anywhere about bushveld

E L L A ’ S B A R


SPINDASIS MOZAMBICA (BERTOLONI) 1850

[CIGARITIS MOZAMBICA (BERTOLONI) 1850]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical area.

H A B I T A T Grassy hillsides with scattered trees, even reaching the Drakensberg foothills in places.

S T A T U S Local and rather uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Definite records lacking.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout most of the year, building up to a marked peak in January.


C O M M E N T S Colonies of this little gem are most often found by chance.

M O Z A M B I Q U E B A R


SPINDASIS NATALENSIS (WESTWOOD) 1851-2

[CIGARITIS NATALENSIS (WESTWOOD) 1851-2]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Well distributed over South Africa and north to Zambia and Malawi.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of vegetation types, from sea-level up to mountains and the highveld.

S T A T U S Although local, it is quite common in its colonies and among hilltopping congregations.

F O O D P L A N T S Clark and Dickson (1971) list Clerodendron glabrum (Verbenaceae) and Canthium ventosa (Rubiaceae). Larvae live in association with ants.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with spring and autumn flushes.


C O M M E N T S A prominent member of this group extremely prone to hilltopping. The form obscura aurivillius occurs in its extreme form along the coastal belt from the Port Alfred area of the Eastern Cape Province through the Transkei and along the KwaZulu-Natal coast to about Durban. Few specimens show more orange on the forewing upperside than a single small patch within the black apical area. Many are completely devoid of any orange on the forewing. However, in the northern regions of Zululand, especially in the drier interior, specimens at once display much

N A T A L B A R

wider areas of orange, virtually with no exception. Indications are that these differences are geographical and thus obscura should be elevated to a subspecies.


SPINDASIS PHANES (TRIMEN) 1873

[CIGARITIS PHANES

(TRIMEN) 1873]

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Malawi and Botswana, etc., south to KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape Province.


S T A T U S Scarce and local over the interior.

F O O D P L A N T S Ximenia sp. (Olacaceae)

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year but scarce in winter.


C O M M E N T S Favours the drier regions of South Africa, such as the Kalahari, and so is not widely found in KwaZulu-Natal. Oddly, the species was found on one occasion in profusion attending Selago flowers about high rocky ridges in the Itala Game Reserve.

S I L V E R Y B A R


TARUCUS BOWKERI BOWKERI (TRIMEN) 1883

TARUCUS BOWKERI TRANSVAALENSIS

QUICKELBERGE 1972

D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, inhabiting elevated stations in the Transkei, KwaZulu-Natal and eastern parts of the former Transvaal.

H A B I T A T Rocky gorges usually in proximity to forests. It keeps to the areas near its foodplant.

S T A T U S Localised and limited to a small number of colonies.

F O O D P L A N T S Phylica paniculata (Rhamnaceae).



C O M M E N T S Most of the few localities known in KwaZulu-Natal support populations attributable to the nominate subspecies. It was interesting to find that populations at higher altitudes within the Drakensberg were different and in fact may be referred to the former Transvaal subspecies of that name.

B O W K E R ’ S B L U E


D O T T E D B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Zambia south to South Africa. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Bushveld, especially those parts which may be referred to as thornveld.

S T A T U S Widespread but not particularly common, to the extent that it is always an exciting experience to come across it.

F O O D P L A N T S Ziziphus mucronata

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a marked summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S A distinctive handsome little blue often disturbed at ground level where it rests.

TARUCUS SYBARIS SYBARIS (HOPFFER) 1855


Z U L U B U F F

D I S T R I B U T I O N Very limited, from about the Umfolozi River northwards over the Zululand coastal lowlands, no doubt entering Mozambique.

H A B I T A T Coastal forest, but also ventures into drier sandforest, as in the Tembe Elephant Reserve area.

S T A T U S Rare, but like all such sedentary butterflies this impression is probably biased by it being overlooked as it remains inactive for long periods.

F O O D P L A N T S Tree lichen.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Although there may be a lull during winter, they emerge early, i.e. August, remaining on the wing during most of summer, at least until May.


C O M M E N T S Individuals remain inactive for long periods sitting immobile, usually on dried vines trailing down from forest trees. Their flight is slow and deliberate. Dukuduku Forest and the precincts of Lake St Lucia harbour the most specimens. On a small tree at False Bay, a number of individuals were seen perched on branches feeding upon scale-insect exudations.

TERIOMIMA ZULUANA VAN SON 1949


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa, from Botswana and Zimbabwe southwards. It is fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Grassy spots on open hillsides or about bush.

S T A T U S Fairly widespread but not a common butterfly, its local colonies occurring sporadically.

F O O D P L A N T S Carnivorous upon psyllids (Homoptera) according to Clarke & Dickson (1971), becoming ant-associated during later stages.



C O M M E N T S The locations of colonies are at present unpredictable.

THESTOR BASUTUS BASUTUS (WALLENGREN) 1857

B A S U T O S K O L L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Southern Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania south to South Africa.


S T A T U S In KwaZulu-Natal it is scarce, certainly not as common as T. melaena.

F O O D P L A N T S Zizyphus mucronata (Rhamnaceae) and Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, more prevalent during the latter half of summer.


C O M M E N T S Found by accident and then not often.

TUXENTIUS CALICE CALICE (HOPFFER) 1855

W H I T E P I E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to South Africa.

H A B I T A T Forest margins and open bush.

S T A T U S Fairly common in places and rather widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Zizyphus mucronata (Rhamnaceae) and Acacia spp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a March to June peak.


C O M M E N T S The pied colouration gives the insect a distinct and conspicuous appearance, as it flutters about shrubs and trees.

TUXENTIUS MELAENA MELAENA (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1887

B L A C K P I E


URANOTHAUMA NUBIFER (TRIMEN) 1895

[URANOTHAUMA NUBIFER NUBIFER

(TRIMEN) 1895]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, extending south to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Although it seems to favour the Acacia-clad banks of streams, it is found over a wide variety of habitats except forests and bare highlands.

S T A T U S Local and uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Acacia and Albizia spp. (Mimosaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Most months of the year, especially mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Strikingly absent along the coast, concentrated in the northern parts and the Tugela River catchment. It is seldom encountered.

B L A C K H E A R T


H I N T Z A B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Ethiopia south to South Africa. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Open woodland and thornveld.

S T A T U S Occurs only in moderate numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Zizyphus zeheriana (Rhamnaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically year round, commonest during January and February.


C O M M E N T S An attractive little blue seen only occasionally in the veld.

ZINTHA HINTZA HINTZA (TRIMEN) 1864


S O O T Y B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa and beyond; also offshore Indian Ocean islands.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide variety of vegetation types.

S T A T U S The most common and widespread of our smaller blues.

F O O D P L A N T S Plant species of at least six families. It is most often seen using Oxalis spp. (Oxalidaceae) growing in grassy patches, etc.


C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Nil.

C O M M E N T S The commonest small blue within built-up areas flying low over grassy verges.

ZIZEERIA KNYSNA (TRIMEN) 1862


C L O V E R B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout Africa and Indian Ocean offshore islands.

H A B I T A T Open grassy localities usually in the vicinity of the foodplant.

S T A T U S Much more local and uncommon than its close relative Z. knysna.

F O O D P L A N T S Desmodium incanum and Indigofera spp. (Fabaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Practically throughout the year, with a marked February to April peak.


ZIZINA ANTANOSSA (MABILLE) 1877

[ZIZINA OTIS ANTANOSSA (MABILLE) 1877]

C O M M E N T S Occurs much in the same situations as Z. knysna but fairly easily recognized by its attractive and unique light silvery-blue wing colour.


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Old World including Australia.

H A B I T A T Open areas within most habitats.

S T A T U S Fairly common and widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S A wide range of plant species, mostly within the family Acanthaceae viz. Phaulopsis, Ruellia, Justica and Dyschoriste; also Oxalis spp. (Oxalidaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I Od Throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S At once recognizable by its small size, elongated wings and delicate appearance.

G A I K A B L U E

U N D E R S I D E

ZIZULA HYLAX (FABRICIUS) 1775



PAPILIONOIDEAF A M I L Y : P A P I L I O N I D A E

G E N U S : G R A P H I U M S C O P O L I , 1 7 7 7

S U B G E N U S : A R I S B E H Ü B N E R , 1 8 1 9

D I S T R I B U T I O N A widespread Afrotropical savanna species entering KwaZulu-Natal from Mozambique, occupying a wide coastal strip south to the Umfolozi River. It occurs only sporadically south to Durban. It wanders far inland on occasion along river courses.

H A B I T A T A typical woodland savanna species.

S T A T U S At best found only in moderate numbers. Patches of flowers, especially along roadsides, may concentrate their numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Annonia and Uvaria spp. (Annonaceae)

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to April, with a mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Flies about at random, with some preference to gravitating to high points of the topography.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) ANGOLANUS ANGOLANUS

(GOEZE) 1779

A N G O L A W H I T E L A D Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It is a coastal species in KwaZulu-Natal, with the distributional belt widening to the north.

H A B I T A T Virtually any open woodland formation or forest edges.

S T A T U S Scarce in the south, becoming commoner and more widespread in the north. It may swarm during favourable seasons.

F O O D P L A N T S Uvaria caffra and Artabotrys monteiroae (Annonaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May, with October and December peaks.


C O M M E N T S Swift and persistent on the wing, only pausing at particular flowers.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) ANTHEUS (CRAMER) 1779

L A R G E S T R I P E D S W O R D T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N An eastern African coastal species occurring from Somalia to KwaZulu-Natal, where it does not occur south of Richards Bay.

H A B I T A T Thick bush and forests.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but does not appear to reach the swarming stages of some of its congeners.

F O O D P L A N T S Artabotrys monteiroae (Annonaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to May, with peaks in October and December.


C O M M E N T S A distinctive species in appearance and habits. Its far more leisurely flight, compared to its congeners, is low and confined to thickets.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) COLONNA (WARD) 1873

M A M B A S W O R D T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N A widespread Afrotropical species. It is also fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal but concentrated along the coastal belt.

H A B I T A T Woodland savanna and bushveld types.

STATUS The commonest and most widespread of the Graphium spp.

F O O D P L A N T S Annonaceae: Annonia, Popowia and Uvaria spp. Apocynaceae: Landolphia sp.

FLIGHT PERIOD July to April, building up to a mid-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Very prone to hilltopping; otherwise occurs at random.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) LEONIDAS LEONIDAS

(FABRICIUS) 1793

V E I N E D S W O R D T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa. It occupies a wide coastal strip, with a few midland records in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Coastal and sub-coastal woodland.

S T A T U S Scarce but at times fairly common.

F O O D P L A N T S Annonaceae: Uvaria caffra and Artabotrys sp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Virtually year round, with a major summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S Habits similar to G. angolanus.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) MORANIA (ANGAS) 1849

W H I T E L A D Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout most of Africa south of the Sahara Desert.

H A B I T A T Coastal bush and forest.

S T A T U S Quite common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Annonaceae: Uvaria caffra, Artabotrys monteiroae.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges early in August, building up to a marked maximum in mid-summer, dwindling dramatically after January. Off-season records are unusual.


C O M M E N T S Very swift and persistent on the wing. Flowers occasionally halt their headlong rush.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) POLICENES POLICENES

(CRAMER) 1775

S M A L L S T R I P E D S W O R D T A I L


D.A. Swanepoel (1953) lists three localities in Zululand at which Graphium (Arisbe) polistratus (Grose-Smith) was apparently recorded, presumably by the author. However, no KwaZulu-Natal specimens appear to exist in Swanepoel’s collection (kindly checked by M. Kruger of the Ditsong (formerly Transvaal) Museum); also there are no other KwaZulu-Natal records in the literature, nor are there specimens in any collections examined. Although this swordtail is therefore rejected from the KwaZulu-Natal list, it is not beyond the bounds of probability that incursions from southern Mozambique could occasionally take place. It seems unlikely that a collector of Swanepoel’s experience could so easily have erred. Future research in northern Zululand could be directed towards verification of this point.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) POLISTRATUS

(GROSE-SMITH) 1889

D A N C I N G S W O R D T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern African from Kenya southwards to northern Zululand, mainly north of the Umfolozi River.

H A B I T A T Lowland bush and savanna country.

S T A T U S Mostly scarce to absent; very occasionally fairly common in localized areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of the genera Uvaria, Artabotrys and Annona (Annonaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Virtually throughout the year, with a marked October maximum, another lesser peak in December, then gradually falls off until March.


C O M M E N T S Habits typical of its congeners.

GRAPHIUM (ARISBE) PORTHAON PORTHAON

(HEWITSON) 1865

C R E A M S T R I P E D S W O R D T A I L


F A M I L Y :

PALILIONIDAES U B G E N U S : P R I N C E P S H Ü B N E R 1 8 0 7

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Ethiopia, west to Democratic Republic of Congo and south to KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Not found south of Durban. It is commoner inland than on the immediate coast.

H A B I T A T Not a typical forest species but becomes evident from their outskirts through to the more open formations of bushveld, woodland savanna and even dry valley bushveld.


F O O D P L A N T S Species of the following Rutaceae genera: Teclea, Fagara, Clausena, Calodendron and Citrus.

F L I G H T P E R I O D The summer months from September to May, with October and mid-summer peaks.


C O M M E N T S Flies about in much the same manner as the ubiquitous P. demodocus; also in flight the two species closely resemble each other.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) CONSTANTINUS CONSTANTINUS

WARD 1871

C O N S T A N T I N E ’ S S W A L L O W T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over the Afrotropical region, with our subspecies cenea apparently confined to southern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, heavily concentrated on the coastal strip, reaching the lower mistbelt forests of the interior but absent from the highest regions, such as the Drakensberg kloof forests.

H A B I T A T A prominent species of forest and their less-dense outliers.

S T A T U S Quite common during good seasons but may also be scarce to absent.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of the following genera: Vepris, Teclea, Fagara, Clausena, Citrus and Calodendron (Rutaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year in the warmer areas, building up to a peak towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A valuable asset to our butterfly fauna, this species is not only striking in form but its generous array of female mimetic forms always serve as a prime example in illustrations of the fascinating subject of mimicry. The protracted patrolling flight pattern of the conspicuous male hardly fails to attract attention. Females tend to skulk within thickets.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) DARDANUS CENEA

STOLL 1790

M O C K E R S W A L L O W T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs throughout the Afrotropical region. May occur almost anywhere in KwaZulu-Natal and the blank spaces on the distribution map are almost certainly the result of a lack of reports.

H A B I T A T Tolerates nearly all vegetation types.

S T A T U S Scarce to common, sometimes abundant and migratory.

F O O D P L A N T S Umbellifereae: Foeniculum vulgare, Bubon galbanum and gummiferum. Sapindaceae: Hippobromus alata. Ptaeroxylaceae: Pteroxylon sp. Rutaceae: Vepris, Teclea, Poncirus, Murraya, Haplophyllum, Fagaropsis, Fagara, Clausena, Citrus and Calodendrum spp., and Oricia buchmannia.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round in warmer areas, with early and late-summer peaks.


C O M M E N T S One of the rather few species of this family that ascends to high points to indulge in hilltopping behaviour. However, the majority patrol about at random.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) DEMODOCUS DEMODOCUS

ESPER 1798

C H R I S T M A S B U T T E R F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Ethiopia south to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal occurs only in upland forests, reaching the most high-lying Drakensberg forests.

H A B I T A T Restricted to montane forests.

S T A T U S Not uncommon and widespread in its particular areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Rutaceae spp. of the following genera: Zanthoxylum, Teclea, Fagara, Clausena and Calodendron.

F L I G H T P E R I O D From September to May, with a marked February to April peak.


C O M M E N T S Has a low, rather leisurely flight, often seeking out flowers on the forest floor or on forest edges.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) ECHERIOIDES ECHERIOIDES

TRIMEN 1868

W H I T E - B A N D E D S W A L L O W T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Our only South African forest endemic in this family. In KwaZulu-Natal, it occupies a particular belt over the midlands.

H A B I T A T Mistbelt, escarpment forests.

S T A T U S Scarce to fairly common.

F O O D P L A N T S Lauraceae: Cryptocarya woodii.

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to April, with a marked January-February peak.


C O M M E N T S A unique Papilio species in habits, distribution and choice of foodplant. The high rating relevant to its conservation status indicates some vulnerability. Its habit of keeping well above collecting height during its patrol flights, however, no doubt results in its under-representation in collections.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) EUPHRANOR TRIMEN 1868

B U S H K I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N A widespread Afrotropical species, ranging south to South Africa, occupying most of the country except the very dry areas. Found all over KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of vegetative types but more at home in wooded areas.

S T A T U S Very variable, ranging from absent to common.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of the usual Rutaceae genera: Calodendron, Citrus, Clausena, Fagara, Teclea and Vepris.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year in warmer areas, with a strong summer bias.


C O M M E N T S This Papilio attracts much attention due its striking wing colouration, and the sight of numbers feeding at flowers is an arresting spectacle.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) NIREUS LYAEUS DOUBLEDAY 1845

G R E E N - B A N D E D S W A L L O W T A I L


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Kenya south to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal, a mistbelt-forest species, present in the highest Drakensberg kloof forests. It occurs sporadically on or near the lower South Coast. During the 1870s and 1880s, Trimen (1889) noted that Col. J.H. Bowker found ophidicephalus all along the coast from Umkomaas to the Tugela River. The species no longer exists along this coastal stretch.

H A B I T A T An evergreen, indigenous forest species, favouring deep ravines, along which it patrols at some height.

S T A T U S : Rare to uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S The usual spp. of the typical genera Calodendron, Citrus, Clausena, Fagara and Teclea (Rutaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May with an October-November flush but with maximum numbers in February and adjacent months.


C O M M E N T S A majestic species, rather sparse and difficult to capture unless feeding at flowers or damp spots. Compared to numbers experienced 50 to 100 years ago, this species could be dwindling and its range contracting.

Family Papilionidae Papilio (Princeps) ophidicephalus ayresi Van Son, 1939

The isolated Ngome Forest in northern Zululand supports a population agreeing with the subspecies ayresi of the south-eastern parts of the former Transvaal. The nearest populations south of Ngome are those on the hills about Eshowe, which show a shift from phalusco to ayresi. These unstable, intergrading populations were named zuluensis by Van Son, 1939, before the full picture of the geographical variation was known. This subspecies therefore falls away.

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) OPHIDICEPHALUS PHALUSCO

SUFFERT 1904

PAPILIO (PRINCEPS)OPHIDICEPHALUS AYRESI

VAN SON 1939

[INCLUDES PAPILIO (PRINCEPS) OPHIDICEPHALUS ZULUENSIS

VAN SON 1939]

E M P E R O R S W A L L O W T A I L



PALILIONIDAEF A M I L Y : P I E R I D A E

S U B F A M I L Y : P I E R I N A E

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Senegal and Ethiopia south to southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Forest edges, moist woodland.

S T A T U S Widespread over the warmer parts but not common.

F O O D P L A N T S Maerua, Capparis and Boscia spp. (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S One the least common of the whites.

APPIAS EPAPHIA CONTRACTA (BUTLER) 1888

D I V E R S E W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Sierra Leone to Sudan and south to the eastern parts of southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Forest margins.

S T A T U S Not uncommon at Eshowe and inland at Nkandla Forest.

F O O D P L A N T S Boscia (Capparaceae) and Drypetes (Euphorbiaceae) spp.



C O M M E N T S This central African species was found to occur in the eastern parts of the former Transvaal some time ago but its presence in KwaZulu-Natal was not suspected until Denis Eckard came across it in the Dlinza Forest, near Eshowe. Subsequently a visit to Nkandla Forest in May 2004 disclosed its presence there as well. The intriguing question is: was it just overlooked or is its KwaZulu-Natal presence a recent colonization? Recently found well into Transkei, as far south as the Manubi Forest near Mazeppa Bay. The above question therefore becomes even more pertinent.

APPIAS SABINA PHOEBE (BUTLER) 1901

A L B A T R O S S W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Most of Africa and over to India.

H A B I T A T May be found virtually anywhere.

S T A T U S Our commonest, most widespread White. It indulges in annual migrations, usually in mid-summer.

F O O D P L A N T S The usual species of Capparaceae, i.e. Boscia, Capparis and Maerua.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year in warmer areas.


C O M M E N T S Not always present at any single locality, as the broods ebb and flow.

F L I G H T P E R I O D August to May, with October and December peaks.


C O M M E N T S Swift and persistent on the wing, only pausing at particular flowers.

BELENOIS AUROTA AUROTA (FABRICIUS) 1793

B R O W N - V E I N E D W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Most of Africa and over to Arabia.

H A B I T A T Virtually everywhere.

S T A T U S Very common and widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S The usual Belenois sp. foodplants.



C O M M E N T S Also swarms in migrations with Belenois aurota at times.

BELENOIS CREONA SEVERINA (STOLL) 1781

A F R I C A N C O M M O N W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Most of the Afrotropical region and Indian Ocean offshore islands.

H A B I T A T Frequents denser wooded areas than its congeners; also the margins of forests.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S As with other Belenois spp.



C O M M E N T S The more acute forewing, with its pearly base, and its more rapid and direct flight distinguish this elegant white.

BELENOIS GIDICA (GODART) 1819

[BELENOIS GIDICA ABYSSINICA (LUCAS) 1852]

A F R I C A N V E I N E D W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa down to southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Mainly in and about the warmer coastal forests.

S T A T U S Rather uncommon.

F O O D P L A N T S Capparis and Maerua spp. (Capparaceae)



C O M M E N T S Its supposed mimicry of Mylothris chloris is not borne out by its habits, with its rapid flight and dislike of the shady forest interior.

BELENOIS THYSA THYSA (HOPFFER) 1855

F A L S E D O T T E D B O R D E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N East and southern Africa.

H A B I T A T Forest margins and outskirts, especially in the mistbelt forests of the interior.

S T A T U S Not a common insect of KwaZulu-Natal.

F O O D P L A N T S Besides the usual spp. of the Capparaceae, also Brassica (Brassicaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Flies mainly during the summer months.


C O M M E N T S A species living mainly inland at some elevation.

BELENOIS ZOCHALIA ZOCHALIA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1836

F O R E S T W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over Africa and its offshore islands, extending to the Oriental region. In KwaZulu-Natal, may occur anywhere but more prevalent towards the warmer coast and river valleys.

H A B I T A T Open woodland formations, freely entering built-up areas.

S T A T U S Periodically common, occasionally involved in migrations.

F O O D P L A N T S Cassia (Caesalpiniaceae) and Sesbania (Fabaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S A familiar garden species, with its rapid flight and frequent visits to flowers.

CATOPSILIA FLORELLA (FABRICIUS) 1775

A F R I C A N V A G R A N T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal, more prevalent at some altitude and up into the Drakensberg. It appears to largely avoid subtropical lowland areas north of Durban.

H A B I T A T Occurs in most habitats, especially in open areas and cultivated lands.

S T A T U S Widespread and common, becoming abundant at times in fields of lucerne.

F O O D P L A N T S Species of Medicago, Sesbania, Trifolium and Vicia (Fabaceae) and Cassia (Caesalpiniaceae).



C O M M E N T S One of the few butterflies of economic importance. Fields of lucerne may be denuded by the larvae.

COLIAS ELECTO ELECTO (LINNAEUS) 1763

L U C E R N E B U T T E R F L Y


D I S T R I B U T I O N Has a disjunct range inhabiting most of the drier regions of southern Africa, with a separate northern population in Ethiopia and Somalia. In KwaZulu-Natal only occurs in areas abutting the Free State.

H A B I T A T Comparatively dry, lightly wooded regions.


F O O D P L A N T S Boscia sp. (Capparaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D The single record was in December.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Insufficient data for KwaZulu-Natal.

C O M M E N T S Not resident in KwaZulu-Natal.

COLOTIS AGOYE BOWKERI (TRIMEN) 1883

[TERACOLUS AGOYE BOWKERI

(TRIMEN) 1883]

S P E C K L E D S U L P H U R T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread in the Afrotropical regions and extralimitally further east. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is confined to the Zululand lowlands north of the Lake St Lucia complex.



F O O D P L A N T S Capparis spp. (Capparaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Summer months, with a build-up towards the end of summer.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S 3:5:3:5:0 = 16 C O M M E N T S Found sparingly among the general collection of whites in bushveld areas.

COLOTIS AMATA CALAIS (CRAMER) 1775

T O P A Z T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread in Africa south of the Sahara; also found widely over KwaZulu-Natal, except for the elevated grasslands and montane areas.

H A B I T A T A woodland, bushveld species.

S T A T U S Although tolerably common, it is often far outnumbered by the usual sympatric species C. euippe.

F O O D P L A N T S Boscia, Capparis and Maerua spp. (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S The handsome Red Tip’s winter form, especially from the desertic regions, is a striking insect.

COLOTIS ANTEVIPPE GAVISA (WALLENGREN) 1857

R E D T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. It occupies the coastal half of KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Valley bushveld and in similar vegetation elsewhere.

S T A T U S In its favourite haunts it can be exceedingly common.

F O O D P L A N T S Cadaba natalensis and Boscia, Capparis and Maerua spp. (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S At home in the hot, dry, scrubby bushveld and occurs in densest numbers near its foodplant, often in vegetation clumps surrounding termitaria.

COLOTIS AUXO AUXO (LUCAS) 1852

[COLOTIS AUXO (LUCAS) 1852]

S U L P H U R O R A N G E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa.

H A B I T A T Occurs in dry, scrubby woodland and bushveld.





C O M M E N T S Is at the southern limit of its distribution in KwaZulu-Natal, so its status here is not a true reflection of its occurrence further north.

COLOTIS CELIMENE AMINA (HEWITSON) 1866

L I L A C T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over Africa and extralimitally to Asia.

H A B I T A T As for C. auxo.

S T A T U S Never as common as auxo, with which it often flies.

F O O D P L A N T S As for C. auxo.



C O M M E N T S Flies together with C. auxo over most of its range in KwaZulu-Natal. The extensive scarlet tip to the forewing apex imparts special appeal.

COLOTIS DANAE ANNAE (WALLENGREN) 1857

S C A R L E T T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Suitable habitats of sub-Saharan Africa and beyond to southern Arabia.

H A B I T A T The drier aspects of bushveld.

S T A T U S At best only moderately common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round with a late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S At once distinguishable among other whites by its rapid, direct flight.

COLOTIS ERIS JOHNSTONI (BUTLER) 1886

[TERACOLUS ERIS ERIS

(KLUG) 1829]

B A N D E D G O L D T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to the north-east coast of South Africa, from the Bashee River (Transkei) to Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Edges of coastal forest.

S T A T U S Fairly common in its localities but with large gaps of uninhabited territory in between.

F O O D P L A N T S Maerua racemulosa (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S Ongoing destruction of coastal forest, especially in which its foodplant occurs, constitutes a real danger to this already rather threatened and endemic species.

COLOTIS ERONE (ANGAS) 1849

C O A S T P U R P L E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread in Africa and beyond to Arabia.

H A B I T A T About forest edges and bush clumps. Quite at home along the seaside edges of the stunted coastal bush abutting the sand dunes.

S T A T U S The commonest of our ‘red-tip’ species.

F O O D P L A N T S Cadaba, Capparis and Maerua spp. (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S Favours the hottest areas of scrubby bushveld, often close to the ground in thickets.

COLOTIS EUIPPE OMPHALE (GODART) 1819

S M O K Y O R A N G E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Very widespread over Africa and some adjacent extralimital regions. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal in the warmer lower regions.

H A B I T A T Arid bushveld.

S T A T U S Common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S A typical common Colotis species.

COLOTIS EVAGORE ANTIGONE (DE BOISDUVAL) 1836

S M A L L O R A N G E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Fairly widespread over the Afrotropical region, especially southern Africa and other eastern African countries to the north as far as Ethiopia.

H A B I T A T The drier bushveld.



F L I G H T P E R I O D Insufficient records but probably year round.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Insufficient records give a false impression of rarity.

C O M M E N T S Far commoner to the north in the former Transvaal and in Namibia.

COLOTIS EVENINA EVENINA (WALLENGREN) 1857

C O M M O N O R A N G E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N All appropriate habitats south of the Sahara. In KwaZulu-Natal, ranges from the Umzinto area northwards.

H A B I T A T A typical bushveld inhabitant.

S T A T U S Not uncommon in KwaZulu-Natal.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with mid- and late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S Not a feature of the coastal fringe, where C. erone occurs.

COLOTIS IONE (GODART) 1819

B U S H V E L D P U R P L E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa and southwards to South Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is mainly confined to the more northern parts of Zululand.






C O M M E N T S From personal experience, this small Colotis only becomes prominent well north of the Tugela River.

COLOTIS PALLENE (HOPFFER) 1855

B U S H V E L D O R A N G E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N From Somalia southwards, mainly in the eastern African countries, to southern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal occurs north of the Tugela River becoming commoner north-eastwards over the Zululand plain.

H A B I T A T Woodland, savanna and open bushveld with a tendency to ascend to the summits of ridges.

S T A T U S Only occurs in spaced-out, moderate numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Boscia, Capparis and Maerua spp. (Capparaceae)

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a marked build-up towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S This impressive fast-flying Colotis sp. has a persistent and straight flight pattern, only halting occasionally to feed on suitable flowers.

COLOTIS REGINA (TRIMEN) 1863

Q U E E N P U R P L E T I P


D I S T R I B U T I O N Over most areas from Central Africa southwards.



F O O D P L A N T S Boscia sp. (Capparaceae).


C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Insufficient records.

C O M M E N T S The sporadic incidence of this arresting Colotis probably indicates that the species is not a breeding resident in KwaZulu-Natal.

COLOTIS SUBFASCIATUS SUBFASCIATUS

(SWAINSON) 1832

[TERACOLUS SUBFASCIATUS SUBFASCIATUS

(SWAINSON) 1832]

L E M O N T R A V E L L E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs throughout the greater part of Africa.

H A B I T A T Woodland to bushveld.

S T A T U S Fairly common but tends to be localized.




C O M M E N T S A sub-tropical species not occurring south of Durban or 30° S.

COLOTIS VESTA ARGILLACEUS (BUTLER) 1877

V E I N E D O R A N G E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia, south through eastern Africa, to the Western Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Essentially a woodland or bushveld species; also along forest edges.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S Capparis sepiaria (Capparaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with early and late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S Sometimes difficult to separate from C. pigea, especially dry season forms. The two species are largely sympatric, the males being mainly pure white over the upper sides.

DIXEIA CHARINA CHARINA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1836

A F R I C A N S M A L L W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Across central Africa and south to northern-eastern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Woodland to bushveld.

S T A T U S Common but localized.




C O M M E N T S Found to inhabit KwaZulu-Natal as late as 1963 by K.M. Pennington.

DIXEIA DOXO (GODART) 1819

DIXEIA DOXO PARVA TALBOT 1943

B L A C K - V E I N E D W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ethiopia south to the Transkei. It is widespread over the warmer lower parts of KwaZulu-Natal, very similar to D. charina.

H A B I T A T Wooded regions and forest edges.

S T A T U S Common.

F O O D P L A N T S Capparis tomentosa (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S Often occurring in sympatry with D. charina along forest fringes.

DIXEIA PIGEA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1836

A N T - H E A P W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central to southern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is mainly coastal south to Durban, filtering out beyond the middle of the South Coast.

H A B I T A T Forest edges and adjacent bush.

S T A T U S Varies from uncommon to abundant.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with late-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S A unique eye-catching butterfly that flutters about at some height on forest edges. The lemon-yellow colour of the butterfly is distinctive.

DIXEIA SPILLERI (SPILLER) 1884

S P I L L E R ’ S S U L P H U R Y E L L O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Mainly over the eastern and central parts of Africa, from Ethiopia southwards. It is widespread over KwaZulu-Natal, except for the colder regions.

H A B I T A T In most wooded tracts and broken forest.


F O O D P L A N T S Capparis zeyheri (Capparaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.


C O M M E N T S The attractive cryptic underside is an appealing feature of this butterfly.

ERONIA CLEODORA CLEODORA HÜBNER 1823

V I N E - L E A F V A G R A N T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. Well distributed over the warmer lower parts of KwaZulu-Natal and well into the Transkei as far south as the Gqunqe River mouth near Gqunqe Forest.

H A B I T A T Similar to its congener E. cleodora.

S T A T U S Never common and only seen singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Capparis corymbifera (Capparaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with the period of lowest numbers from late winter to the first half of summer.


C O M M E N T S Although quite widespread, this striking butterfly generally occurs in thin numbers and it is absent from many parts within its distributional area. It merits monitoring.

ERONIA LEDA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

A U T U M N - L E A F V A G R A N T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread from Africa to Arabia. It occurs throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Virtually in all veld-types but especially in open grassland.

S T A T U S Usually common.

F O O D P L A N T S Cassia mimosoides (Caesalpiniaceae), Hypericum aethiopicum (Clusiaceae), Acacia and Albizia (Mimosaceae), Sesbania and Tephrosia spp. (Fabaceae).



C O M M E N T S A conspicuous, widespread species entering built-up areas.

EUREMA (MAIVA) BRIGITTA BRIGITTA

(STOLL) 1780

B R O A D - B O R D E R E D G R A S S Y E L L O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region. It is equally widespread in KwaZulu-Natal, especially about the lowlands.

H A B I T A T The vicinity of forests and bush.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but numbers vary.

F O O D P L A N T S Cassia mimosoides (Caesalpiniaceae); Hypericum aethiopicum (Clusiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with lowest numbers during the main part of summer.


C O M M E N T S Habits much the same as its two congeners but more restricted to denser woodland and forest outskirts.

EUREMA (MAIVA) DESJARDINSII MARSHALLI

(BUTLER) 1898

[EUREMA (EUREMA) DESJARDINSII REGULARIS

(BUTLER) 1876]

A N G L E D G R A S S Y E L L O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs widely from Africa to many parts of the Oriental region.

H A B I T A T In most habitats, favouring wooded tracts.

S T A T U S Common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Hypericum aethiopicum (Clusiaceae); Cassia (Caesalpiniaceae), Albizia and Entada (Mimosaceae), and Sesbania (Fabaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a build-up to late summer.


C O M M E N T S Unless examined closely, it is easily confused with its congeners when on the wing.

EUREMA (TERIAS) HECABE SOLIFERA

(BUTLER) 1875

C O M M O N G R A S S Y E L L O W


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region and Madagascar. It is mainly coastal through KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Occupying various forest types, never straying too far from the shady interior.

S T A T U S Not uncommon but tends to be rather local.

F O O D P L A N T S Capparis fascicularis (Capparaceae).



C O M M E N T S The only species within its family that is not sun-loving. Other atypical characteristics are its wing-shape and remarkably slow wing beats.

LEPTOSIA ALCESTA INALCESTA BERNARDI 1959

A F R I C A N W O O D W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N General over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal occurs mainly along the coastal sector.

H A B I T A T Most wooded and forested areas.

S T A T U S Very widespread and common.

F O O D P L A N T S Erianthemum dregei (Loranthus dregei) and other spp. of the Loranthaceae.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year with early and late-summer maxima.


C O M M E N T S Very persistent on the wing; not averse to flying about in light rain.

MYLOTHRIS AGATHINA AGATHINA (CRAMER) 1779

C O M M O N D O T T E D B O R D E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread south of Ethiopia. It has a somewhat restricted distribution in KwaZulu-Natal, with a distinct dearth of records over the Zululand plain.

H A B I T A T Wooded ravines, riverine bush and forest.

S T A T U S Not as widespread as M. agathina but quite common in its favoured localities.

F O O D P L A N T S Various spp. of the family Loranthaceae.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a mid-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Although occurring together with agathina in many places, markedly less abundant and more localized.

MYLOTHRIS RUEPPELLII HAEMUS (TRIMEN) 1879

T W I N D O T T E D B O R D E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Our only South African endemic ‘white’, occurring from Bedford in the Eastern Cape Province, through the Transkei and KwaZulu-Natal, up to the eastern parts of the former Transvaal. There are only two centres of distribution in KwaZulu-Natal, one in the Durban area, in which they are very uncommon, and the other in the Eshowe-Nkandla area.

H A B I T A T More at home in forest, in contrast to its two congeners which prefer open woodland.

S T A T U S Only fairly common in the Nkandla Forest, otherwise rather scarce.

F O O D P L A N T S Various spp. of the family Loranthaceae.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a March-May peak.


C O M M E N T S Must surely occur in more of the unexplored mistbelt forests of KwaZulu-Natal than is known at present. If it has disappeared from the Durban area, which seems likely, then the species in KwaZulu-Natal could be in a precarious position. However, Eastern Cape Province populations, especially those in the Amatole Mountain forests, are quite viable and the species may be common there at times.

MYLOTHRIS TRIMENIA (BUTLER) 1869

T R I M E N ’ S D O T T E D B O R D E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central to southern Africa. Although widespread over the coastal half of KwaZulu-Natal, it has a patchy distribution.

H A B I T A T Forest and dense bush.

S T A T U S Generally fairly plentiful but unaccountably absent in many areas.

F O O D P L A N T S Cassipourea (Rhizophoraceae), Salacia (Celastraceae) and Ritchiea (Capparaceae) spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a summer build-up to an April maximum.


C O M M E N T S As the largest of our ‘whites’, argia is an impressive species with a rich array of female forms.

NEPHERONIA ARGIA VARIA (TRIMEN) 1864

[INCLUDES NEPHERONIA ARGIA VARIEGATA

HENNING 1994]

L A R G E V A G R A N T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region, i.e. northern, central and eastern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is concentrated over the coastal half.

H A B I T A T Follows the distribution of its foodplant, which occurs in bushveld and riverine thickets.

S T A T U S Fairly common under optimum conditions.

F O O D P L A N T S Azima tetracantha (Salvadoraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a build-up in numbers during summer and a reduction during winter.


C O M M E N T S A conspicuous white, never far from its common foodplant.

NEPHERONIA BUQUETII BUQUETII (DE BOISDUVAL) 1836

B U Q U E T ’ S W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa south to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Forest and dense bush.


F O O D P L A N T S Hippocrates sp. (Celastraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a late-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Very restricted and threatened in KwaZulu-Natal. The magnificent prolific bush near the Pongola River, where the road bridge crosses at the Emphondweni store settlement 10 km from Tembe Elephant Park, used to harbour a fair population of this striking ‘white’. In recent times it has completely disappeared from this area, as the bush has been hacked down. The reported occurrence of this species in a forest patch atop the mountains near Ubomba is the only other known viable population in KwaZulu-Natal. There are reports of its presence further north at Ndumo.

NEPHERONIA THALASSINA SINALATA

(SUFFERT) 1904

C A M B R I D G E V A G R A N T


D I S T R I B U T I O N Covers most of Africa and extends to southern Arabia. It is fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal but concentrated mainly in the Zululand bushveld.

H A B I T A T A wide variety of open woodland types, with a preference for those in the drier regions.

S T A T U S Although widespread, found singly and never common.



C O N S E R V A T I On status 3:1:1:3:0 = 8

C O M M E N T S A unique attractive species of rather nomadic habits.

PINACOPTERYX ERIPHIA ERIPHIA (GODART) 1819

Z E B R A W H I T E


D I S T R I B U T I O N Central Africa south to the Western Cape Province. It is fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal, mainly off the coastal belt. This species is virtually absent from the subtropical Zululand plain.

H A B I T A T In almost all habitats except forests. It favours the cooler grassland regions, meadows, embankments and degraded areas.

S T A T U S Not as common as it is widespread.

F O O D P L A N T S Lepidium capensis and other spp. of the Brassicaceae in the genera Alyssum, Heliophila and Sisymbrium; also Reseda (Resedaceae).



C O M M E N T S Occurs over a wide altitudinal range from sea-level to the summits of the highest mountains. Fond of lucerne lands in flower.

PONTIA (PONTIA) HELICE HELICE (LINNAEUS) 1764

M E A D O W W H I T E



NYMPHALOIDEAF A M I L Y : A C R A E I D A E

S U B G E N U S : A C R A E A F A B R I C I U S

D I S T R I B U T I O N A tropical eastern African species only marginally entering northern Zululand, in a strip from Kosi Bay to Ndumo against the Lebombo Mountains.

H A B I T A T Favours open woodland and grassy tracts in the vicinity of sand forest.

S T A T U S May be encountered singly or in aggregations resting within tall grass clumps.

F O O D P L A N T S Xylotheca sp. (Flacourtiaceae) as recorded by Larson (1991).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, peaking towards the end of summer. Found particularly common one August near the Manguzi Forest, Kwangwanase.


C O M M E N T S The scarlet dry-season form is a striking insect, rendered especially conspicuous when seen against a backdrop of tall, dry, winter grass.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) ACRITA ACRITA HEWITSON 1865

F I E R Y A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N An eastern African species, with a virtually continuous distribution from southern Sudan south to the Eastern Cape Province. It is predominantly coastal in KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Occurs in and about the warmer coastal forests, with some inland records mainly in the north.

S T A T U S Although widespread never common in any one spot.

F O O D P L A N T S Passiflora spp., including incarnata, caerulea and edulis, and Adenia gummifera (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year. It is most common from mid-summer to autumn.


C O M M E N T S Often keeps at some height, perching on a prominent twig and periodically flying slowly about.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) AGANICE AGANICE

HEWITSON 1852

C O M M O N W A N D E R E R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to southern Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal, only occurs north of Durban.

H A B I T A T The drier bushveld areas. The males ascend to hilltops during the warmer hours of the day. S T A T U S Scarce to fairly common.


F L I G H T P E R I O D A strong emergence during early summer, particularly in October, with a lesser flush late in the season. It may also occur during the off-season.


C O M M E N T S This distinctive Acraea, with its transparent patch in the forewings, is much commoner further north, as in Swaziland and the former Transvaal.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) AGLAONICE WESTWOOD 1881

C L E A R - S P O T T E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over Africa south of Somalia, entering KwaZulu-Natal over the northern Zululand plain down to the Tugela River.

H A B I T A T Bushveld and the vicinity of sand forests.

S T A T U S Occasionally found in fair numbers but generally scarce.

F O O D P L A N T S Adenia venenata (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D May occur throughout the year, with a mid-summer maximum.


C O M M E N T S A unique and conspicuous species. It flies about at random.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) ANEMOSA HEWITSON 1865

B R O A D - B O R D E R E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ranges over most of southern Africa but does not occur north of Zambia and southern Malawi. In KwaZulu-Natal, only found north of the Umfolozi River.

H A B I T A T Another typically bushveld acraea; may wander away to open grassveld, where attracted to flowers. S T A T U S Generally rather scarce but may be prolific, as at Itala Game Reserve.


F L I G H T P E R I O D May occur year round. KwaZulu-Natal records indicate only a summer emergence, with peaks in October & April.


C O M M E N T S A small, somewhat uncommon acraea.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) AXINA WESTWOOD 1881

L I T T L E A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal, only found on the coast south of Durban. Elsewhere, the cooler escarpment forests are the main haunts of this Acraea.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest.

S T A T U S Usually scarce but may be more abundant at certain times.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year. In KwaZulu-Natal, recorded from September to May, with the peak period from December to April.


C O M M E N T S Flies in the higher parts of the forest but readily descends to feed on flowers or moisture from the ground.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) BOOPIS BOOPIS WICHGRAF 1914

R A I N F O R E S T A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the eastern sector of Africa, from Kenya south to Port St Johns in Pondoland. Has a patchy distribution in South Africa, also in KwaZulu-Natal, where it is coastal from the south up to about the Umfolozi River, with a further restricted distribution in escarpment forests.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest: occasionally in adjacent drier bush.

S T A T U S Scarce to fairly common.

F O O D P L A N T S Rawsonia lucida (Flacourtiacaea)

F L I G H T P E R I O D Occurs mainly from October to April, with peaks in December & March. It may fly sparingly during winter.


C O M M E N T S Flies about the forest canopy but readily descends to feed on flowers.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) CERASA CERASA

HEWITSON 1861

T R E E - T O P A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Endemic to South Africa, mainly over the more eastern parts and south to Cape Town. There are odd records from Zimbabwe but it does not appear to be resident there. Widespread in KwaZulu-Natal but absent on the subtropical Zululand plain north of the Tugela River.

H A B I T A T Usually found wherever the foodplant occurs, which takes it from precipitous mountain slopes with minimal shrub cover to forests and gardens.

S T A T U S Usually common to abundant.

F O O D P L A N T S Kiggelaria africana (Flacourtiaceae) and Passiflora spp. (Passifloraceae)

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year in warmer areas, with a marked build-up to a February peak.


C O M M E N T S Although horta has a limited distribution in Africa, it is very successful, often occurring in great numbers. The larvae are conspicuous and usually abundant on foodplants, even migrating to the walls of nearby buildings to pupate.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) HORTA (LINNAEUS) 1764

G A R D E N A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Rather wide-ranging from Democratic Republic of Congo and Kenya southwards. In southern Africa has a decided preference for the drier central and western parts, with occasional incursions into eastern localities. For KwaZulu-Natal there is only a single record, from Itala Game Reserve.

H A B I T A T At Itala Game Reserve, found in a thickly wooded ravine.

S T A T U S Only one specimen seen during numerous visits.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Has been observed in summer and winter. The KwaZulu-Natal record was on 15 March 1994.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Records inadequate for valid assessment.

C O M M E N T S The single specimen obtained was fairly fresh and thus the possibility of a resident breeding population existing in KwaZulu-Natal should be considered.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) LYGUS DRUCE 1875

L Y G U S A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ranges over the eastern parts of Africa from Tanzania to KwaZulu-Natal, where recorded from Eshowe and Kosi Bay.

H A B I T A T From forest to drier bush.

S T A T U S Comparatively rare.


F L I G H T P E R I O D Potentially year round but more numerous towards the end of the summer. In KwaZulu-Natal recorded February to March.

C O N S E R V A T I O N S T A T U S Nil if the few specimens found in KwaZulu-Natal are migrants.

C O M M E N T S Two specimens found hilltopping at Mandawe, Eshowe; one on each of two consecutive occasions caught by Julian and Arthur Nagle. Found at Kosi Bay by Robert Kyle.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) MACHEQUENA

GROSE-SMITH 1887

M A C H E Q U E N A A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Ranges over eastern Africa, from Kenya south to the Eastern Cape Province. It is widespread along coastal KwaZulu-Natal and inland to the midlands.

H A B I T A T Tolerates a wide range of woodland types, including the vicinity of forests.


F O O D P L A N T S Adenia and Passiflora spp. (Passifloraceae); also Tricliceras longipedunculatum (Turneraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, building up to a peak in January and again in April.


C O M M E N T S Generally encountered singly, natalica is one of our commonest acraeas.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) NATALICA NATALICA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

[ACRAEA (ACRAEA) NATALICA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1847]

N A T A L A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over Africa, including southern Africa and KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Although widespread like its close ally horta, differs only in that neobule prefers the drier bush and woodlands, and is not partial to forests.

S T A T U S Common and far-ranging.

F O O D P L A N T S Adenia gummifera and Passiflora edulis and incarnata (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, especially during the summer months, peaking in April.


C O M M E N T S It is much given to hilltopping and is often to be seen floating about over the highest tops of shrubs and trees on koppies and ridges.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) NEOBULE NEOBULE

DOUBLEDAY 1848

W A N D E R I N G D O N K E Y A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Kenya south to Mbotyi in Pondoland. Fairly widespread in KwaZulu-Natal in some coastal localities but occurs mainly over the central uplands.

H A B I T A T In KwaZulu-Natal, nohara occurs typically on moist, high, grassy hillsides. However, in northern Zululand the species behaves as a hilltopper in rocky, dry woodland.

S T A T U S Rather more localized than most acraeas, often occurring quite prolifically.

F O O D P L A N T S Tricliceras longipedunculatum (Turneraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to May, with a marked October peak.


C O M M E N T S Flies low over moist, well-grassed, open hillsides. Finding the same species hilltopping in dry Zululand bushveld was a strange experience.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) NOHARA NOHARA DE BOISDUVAL 1847

L I G H T - R E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Most of the Afrotropical region from Somalia southwards. Although it enjoys good coverage of a wide belt along the KwaZulu-Natal coast, it does not penetrate the Transkei.

H A B I T A T Another open woodland/savannah acraea that is not at home in undisturbed evergreen indigenous forest.

S T A T U S Very common.

F O O D P L A N T S Xylotheca kraussiana (Flacourtiaceae); Tricliceras longipedunculatum (Turneraceae) and Adenia spp. (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with mini-peaks in October, January and April-May.


C O M M E N T S In common with most acraeas, this species flies leisurely about seeking flowers, but, in keeping with its more pointed forewings, is capable of comparatively rapid bursts of speed.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) ONCAEA HOPFFER 1855

R O O I B O K A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Inhabits a wide belt of the eastern coastline from Kenya to KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Occurs within well-wooded tracts, forest paths and their edges.

S T A T U S Somewhat localized, mainly to the vicinity of the trees that constitute their foodplant. In this situation, they may be abundant to the point of foodplant defoliation by their larvae.

F O O D P L A N T S Xylotheca kraussiana (Flacourtiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with slight January and April peaks.


C O M M E N T S A striking, distinctive species. The brilliant carmine-red pigment on the wings soon fades after death to a dull brick colour

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) PETRAEA DE BOISDUVAL 1847

B L O O D - R E D A C R A E A


ACRAEA (ACRAEA) RABBAIAE WARD 1873

[ACRAEA (ACRAEA) RABBAIAE RABBAIAE

WARD 1873]

[ACRAEA (ACRAEA) RABBAIAE PERLUCIDA

HENNING & HENNING 1996]

D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern seaboard from KwaZulu-Natal to Kenya.

H A B I T A T Forest canopy but often descending to feed or rest. It wanders off to open areas if flowers are available.

S T A T U S Generally scarce to rare. Flowers on trees sometimes attract numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Adenia and Basananthe spp. (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D September to May, with a mid-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S An interesting and unusual acraea both in appearance and habits. Its apparent rarity makes it a collector’s prize. The preference of the species for keeping to the forest canopy and spending long periods resting there adds to the appearance of rarity. Even when active, the largely transparent wings render it very inconspicuous, as it sails about high over the tree-tops.

C L E A R - W I N G A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N The coastal corridor from Kenya to northern KwaZulu-Natal.

H A B I T A T Evergreen indigenous forest; ranges on occasion to more open woodland.

S T A T U S Flowers may attract vast numbers, especially within the particular forest on the Lebombo Mountains where the species is resident; otherwise seen singly, often some distance away.

F O O D P L A N T S Urera spp. (Urticaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Emerges in October, with the main flight period from December to April.


C O M M E N T S The existence of only one permanent breeding population in South Africa, situated a considerable distance from its nearest neighbouring populations in Zimbabwe, is remarkable. In KwaZulu-Natal, individuals from this breeding colony (Gwaliweni Forest) are inclined to wander off and cover great distances, as for example the records from Durban. All records away from Gwaliweni Forest have occurred at irregular intervals at different localities, making them almost certainly itinerant individuals.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) SATIS WARD 1871

E A S T - C O A S T A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs from Malawi and Angola southwards through the eastern parts to Pondoland, Transkei. The KwaZulu-Natal distribution has a remarkably similar pattern to that of A. nohara.

H A B I T A T High grassy hillsides in escarpment areas, but, like nohara, it also occurs on bushy flats near the coastline, as at Kwangwanase near Kosi Bay.

S T A T U S May be fairly common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Basananthe sandersoni (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a heavy summer maximum, especially October to January.


C O M M E N T S A species sharing very similar ecological requirements with A. nohora, the two species often flying together.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) VIOLARUM DE BOISDUVAL 1847

S P E C K L E D R E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region, reaching down the east coast to Port St Johns. It occupies most of KwaZulu-Natal, its coverage becoming denser towards northern Zululand.

H A B I T A T The warmer denser bushveld and woodland types; also the vicinity of coastal forest.

S T A T U S Occurs in scarce to moderately common numbers.

F O O D P L A N T S Plant species of two families: Flacourtiaceae (Smeathmannia, Hydnocarpus) and Passifloraceae (Adenia, Barleria, Passiflora, Basananthe).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, most frequent from October to January.


C O M M E N T S Habits typical of the acraeas.

ACRAEA (ACRAEA) ZETES ACARA (HEWITSON) 1865

[ACRAEA (ACRAEA) ACARA ACARA

HEWITSON 1865]

L A R G E S P O T T E D A C R A E A


F A M I L Y :

ACRAEIDAES U B G E N U S : A C T I N O T E H Ü B N E R 1 8 1 9

D I S T R I B U T I O N From Democratic Republic of Congo and Kenya south to the eastern half of southern Africa, reaching the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal it frequents the interior uplands.

H A B I T A T In South Africa, it inhabits highland grassy hills in areas of high precipitation. To the north, anacreon becomes a woodland species.

S T A T U S May be almost abundant in the local areas where they breed; more usually wandering individuals are encountered singly.

F O O D P L A N T S Clifforitia linearifolia (Rosaceae); Aeschynomene spp. (Fabaceae) and Adenia spp. (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D October to April, peaking towards March.


C O M M E N T S Strong resident populations inhabit very localized areas in wetland bogs of the Karkloof region. It has also been found along the Drakensberg, again in localized spots.

ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) ANACREON ANACREON

(TRIMEN) 1868

[TELCHINIA ANACREON(TRIMEN) 1868]

O R A N G E A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Democratic Republic of Congo and eastern Africa from Kenya south to the Eastern Cape Province. In KwaZulu-Natal, it is concentrated along the coast.

H A B I T A T Forest verges and the moister woodlands.

S T A T U S Occurs rather sporadically, but when fully on the wing may be quite common.

F O O D P L A N T S Triumfetta spp. (Tiliaceae); Hermannia spp. (Sterculiaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round but numbers very variable. March to May are the most prolific months.


C O M M E N T S A small unique acraea usually encountered singly, flying slowly about at random.

ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) CABIRA (HOPFFER) 1855

[TELCHINIA CABIRA

(HOPFFER) 1855]

Y E L L O W - B A N D E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Occurs from Malawi and Angola southwards through the eastern parts to Pondoland, Transkei. The KwaZulu-Natal distribution has a remarkably similar pattern to that of A. nohara.

H A B I T A T High grassy hillsides in escarpment areas, but, like nohara, it also occurs on bushy flats near the coastline, as at Kwangwanase near Kosi Bay.

S T A T U S May be fairly common in season.

F O O D P L A N T S Basananthe sandersoni (Passifloraceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a heavy summer maximum, especially October to January.


C O M M E N T S A species sharing very similar ecological requirements with A. nohora, the two species often flying together.

ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) ENCEDON ENCEDON

(LINNAEUS) 1758

[TELCHINIA ENCEDON ENCEDON (LINNAEUS) 1758]

W H I T E - B A R R E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal enjoys a dense coverage of the coastal half of the province.

H A B I T A T A wide range of open woodland types and forest verges.

S T A T U S Usually common to abundant.

F O O D P L A N T S Same as for A. cabira.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year; very variable in numbers from month to month, with a moderate peak in April-May.


C O M M E N T S Very prevalent about degraded areas, where attracted to weed flowers.

ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) EPONINA (CRAMER) 1780

[TELCHINIA EPONINA (CRAMER) 1780]

S M A L L O R A N G E A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region excluding West Africa. It covers most of KwaZulu-Natal, except the Drakensberg and other high-lying areas.

H A B I T A T Found in virtually all the woodland types, including forest.

S T A T U S Common to abundant.

F O O D P L A N T S Laportia peduncularis; Pouzolzia procridioides; Urera tenax (Urticaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, building up to a late-summer peak.


C O M M E N T S Our commonest forest/bush acraea. It has many polymorphic forms.

ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) ESEBRIA ESEBRIA

HEWITSON 1861

[TELCHINIA ESEBRIA (HEWITSON) 1861]

D U S K Y A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Tanzania south to the Transkei as far as Coffee Bay. It is essentially a coastal species.

H A B I T A T In and about coastal forests.

S T A T U S Not uncommon, often gathering to feed on flowers, usually at some elevation.

F O O D P L A N T S Urera woodii (Urticaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a marked April peak.



ACRAEA (ACTINOTE) IGOLA (TRIMEN) 1889

[TELCHINIA IGOLA (TRIMEN & BOWKER) 1889]

D U S K Y - V E I N E D A C R A E A


D I S T R I B U T I O N Eastern Africa from Ethiopia southwards. Rather widespread over KwaZulu-Natal, from the midlands increasing in frequency towards the coast.

H A B I T A T Open areas in various types of woodland.

S T A T U S Moderate numbers to very common.

F O O D P L A N T S Hybanthus capensis (Violaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Throughout the year, with a mid-summer peak and another in April.


C O M M E N T S A curious little species, flying feebly over grasslands, constantly searching for flowers.

PARDOPSIS PUNCTATISSIMA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1833

P O L K A D O T



NYMPHALOIDEAF A M I L Y : D A N A I D A E

T H E M O N A R C H S , M I L K W E E D S

D I S T R I B U T I O N Widely distributed over the Afrotropical region, ranging south over the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape Province. Over KwaZulu-Natal the species is largely confined to the coastal strip.

H A B I T A T A forest species, although readily wandering into open woodland and even gardens.

F O O D P L A N T S Tylophora anomala, Cynanchum natalitium (Asclepiadaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, peaking at the change of seasons.


C O M M E N T S A restless, fairly fast and high-flying species. From June to October 1995, the species was abnormally common along the entire KwaZulu-Natal coastline, and people reported seeing their beautiful, entirely gold-coloured pupae attached to plants in various localities.

AMAURIS ALBIMACULATA ALBIMACULATA

BUTLER 1875

L A Y M A N F R I A R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Widespread over the Afrotropical region, ranging into West Africa and penetrating further south to George, as compared with its close congener A. albimaculata that barely reaches the Eastern Cape Province.

H A B I T A T Forests and their outskirts, but comparatively scarce along the coast, especially north of Durban.

S T A T U S Not as common as A. albimaculata and the number of records are roughly half that of its sibling.

F O O D P L A N T S Tylophora anomala (Asclepiadaceae).

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with peaks at change of seasons.


C O M M E N T S In general appearance and habits the two species A. albomaculata and A. echeria are very close and cannot be separated on the wing. Further north in Africa, the species becomes even more restricted to semi-montane regions.

AMAURIS ECHERIA ECHERIA (STOLL) 1790

C H I E F F R I A R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Throughout most of the forested tracts of the Afrotropical region. In KwaZulu-Natal, only found north of Durban.

H A B I T A T Essentially a lowland forest species. S T A T U S Rather scarce south of Richards Bay, becoming commoner northwards.

F O O D P L A N T S Not known for KwaZulu-Natal.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Histogram shows a remarkably even and progressive build-up towards mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Seems to have disappeared from the Durban area. In December 1993, there were countless numbers of this species resting in the shade of large trees at False Bay. Two weeks later they had disappeared.

AMAURIS NIAVIUS DOMINICANUS TRIMEN 1879

F R I A R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Mainly concentrated along the eastern littoral of Africa from Somalia southwards to KwaZulu-Natal. Also found on some offshore islands.

H A B I T A T Lowland forest and surroundings. S T A T U S Varies from scarce to occasionally abundant.

F O O D P L A N T S Asclepiadaceae spp., principally Tylophora anomalis.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with a winter low and rising to a peak towards mid-summer.


C O M M E N T S Occurs freely along the South Coast, where its close congener A. niavius is absent. Usually flies at some height, with the buoyant, lazy action typical of the Danaidae.

AMAURIS OCHLEA OCHLEA (DE BOISDUVAL) 1847

N O V I C E F R I A R


D I S T R I B U T I O N Extremely widespread over Africa and many parts of the Old World.

H A B I T A T Except for dense forests, occurs everywhere.

S T A T U S Scarce to absent during winter and early summer, becoming commoner as summer progresses.

F O O D P L A N T S Wide range of milkweed species (Asclepiadaceae), e.g. Asclepias, Ceropegia and Huernia spp.

F L I G H T P E R I O D Year round, with an increase in numbers towards the end of summer.


C O M M E N T S A ubiquitous species, often abundant on roadside flowers and flowering lucerne lands.

DANAUS CHRYSIPPUS AEGYPTIUS (SCHREBER) 1759

[DANAUS CHRYSIPPUS ORIENTIS

(AURIVILLIUS) 1909]

A F R I C A N M O N A R C H


R E F E R E N C E S

ACKERY, P.R., SMITH, C.R. & VANE-WRIGHT, R.I. (eds). 1995. Carcasson’s African butterflies: an annotated catalogue of the Papilionoidea and Hesperioidea of the Afrotropical region. CSIRO: East Melbourne.

BOURQUIN, O. 1990. Prevention of man-induced extinction of indigenous vertebrate and plant species in KwaZulu-Natal: Revised procedure. Natal Parks Board Species Programme Procedure: Phase 1. Unpublished Natal Parks Board document, 31 pp.

CAMP, K. 1999. Guide to the use of the Bioresource Programme. Cedara Report No. N/A/99/11. Natural Resources Section, Technology Development and Training, Cedara.

CLARK, G.C. & DICKSON, C.G.C. 1971. Life histories of the South African Lycaenid butterflies. Purnell & Sons: Cape Town. pp. xvi, 272 pp.

COOPER, K.H. 1985. The conservation status of indigenous forests in Transvaal, Natal and O.F.S., South Africa. Wildlife Society of South Africa: Durban. pp. 108.

DICKSON, C.G.C. & KROON, D.M. (eds). 1978. Pennington’s butterflies of southern Africa. 1st ed. A.D. Donker: Johannesburg.

HARRISON, J.A., ALLAN, D.G., UNDERHILL, L.G., HERREMANS, M., TREE, A.J., PARKER, V. & BROWN, C.J. (eds). 1997. The atlas of southern African birds. Vols 1 & 2. Birdlife South Africa: Johannesburg.

HEATH, A. 1997. A review of African genera of the tribe Aphnaeni (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Metamorphosis Supplement 2: 1-60.

HEATH, A. 2001. New synonymies and taxonomic notes on the genus Chrysoritis Butler (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Metamorphosis 12(3): 85-98.

HENNING, S.F. 1989. The Charaxinae butterflies of Africa. Aloe Books: Johannesburg.

HENNING, S.F. & HENNING, G.A. 1989. South Africa Red Data Book - Butterflies. South African National Scientific Programmes Report No. 158. Foundation for Research Development, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research: Pretoria.

KROON, D.M. 1999. Lepidoptera of southern Africa. Host-plants and other associations. A catalogue. Lepidopterists’ Society of Africa & D.M. Kroon: Jukskei Park and Sasolburg, South Africa.

IUCN. 2001. IUCN Red List Categories: Version 3.1. Prepared by the IUCN Species Survival Commission: Gland, Switzerland & Cambridge, UK.

PENNINGTON, K.M. 1963. A check list of the butterflies of Natal and Zululand. Durban Museum Novitates 7(2): 27-70.

PRINGLE, E.L., HENNING, G.A. & BALL, J.B. (eds). 1994. Pennington’s butterflies of southern Africa. 2nd ed. Struik Winchester: Cape Town.

QUICKELBERGE, C.D. 1972. A study of Poecilmitis phosphor (Trimen). Entomologist’s Record and Journal of Variation 84: 85-94.

QUICKELBERGE, C.D. 1981. Systematic notes on southern African butterflies 5. On the Natal populations of Durbania amakosa Trimen, with descriptions of two new subspecies. Durban Museum Novitates 12(19): 215-222.

SWANEPOEL, D.A. 1953. Butterflies of South Africa: where, when and how they fly. Maskew Miller Ltd: Cape Town.

TRIMEN, R. 1887. South-African butterflies: a monograph of the extra-tropical species 2 Erycinidae and Lycaenidae: 217. Trübner & Cc: Ludgate Hill, London.

TRIMEN, R. 1889. South-African butterflies: a monograph of the extra-tropical species 3 Papilionidae and Hesperidae [sic]: 389. Trübner & Cc: Ludgate Hill, London.

VAN SON, G. 1979. The butterflies of southern Africa. Part IV. Nymphalidae: Nymphalinae. Vári L (ed.). Memoir No 22, No. 8: [i]-ix, 1-166. Transvaal Museum: Pretoria.

VÁRI, L., KROON, D.M. & KRÜGER, M. 2002. Classification and checklist of the species of Lepidoptera recorded in southern Africa. Published by the authors: Sasolburg, South Africa.

WILLIAMS, M.C. 2010. Butterflies and skippers of the Afrotropical Region. Approx. 5000 pp. CD-ROM. Available from the author at: [email protected].


Abantis bicolor ............................................................................Bicoloured Skipper ......................................................................... 11

Abantis paradisea ........................................................................Paradise Skipper ............................................................................ 12

Abantis venosa ............................................................................Veined Skipper ............................................................................... 13

Acleros mackenii .........................................................................Macken’s Dart ................................................................................ 14

Acleros mackenii mackenii ............................................................Macken’s Dart ................................................................................ 14

Acraea (Acraea) acara acara .........................................................Large Spotted Acraea ................................................................... 390

Acraea (Acraea) acrita acrita ........................................................Fiery Acraea ................................................................................. 372

Acraea (Acraea) aganice aganice ..................................................Common Wanderer ....................................................................... 373

Acraea (Acraea) aglaonice ............................................................Clear-spotted Acraea .................................................................... 374

Acraea (Acraea) anemosa.............................................................Broad-bordered Acraea ................................................................. 375

Acraea (Acraea) axina .................................................................Little Acraea ................................................................................. 376

Acraea (Acraea) boopis boopis .....................................................Rainforest Acraea ......................................................................... 377

Acraea (Acraea) cerasa cerasa .....................................................Tree-top Acraea ............................................................................ 378

Acraea (Acraea) horta ..................................................................Garden Acraea ............................................................................. 379

Acraea (Acraea) lygus ..................................................................Lygus Acraea ............................................................................... 380

Acraea (Acraea) machequena .......................................................Machequena Acraea ..................................................................... 381

Acraea (Acraea) natalica ..............................................................Natal Acraea ................................................................................ 382

Acraea (Acraea) natalica natalica ..................................................Natal Acraea ................................................................................ 382

Acraea (Acraea) neobule neobule .................................................Wandering Donkey Acraea ............................................................ 383

Acraea (Acraea) nohara nohara .....................................................Light-red Acraea ........................................................................... 384

Acraea (Acraea) oncaea ...............................................................Rooibok Acraea ............................................................................ 385

Acraea (Acraea) petraea ...............................................................Blood-red Acraea .......................................................................... 386

Acraea (Acraea) rabbaiae .............................................................Clear-wing Acraea ........................................................................ 387

Acraea (Acraea) rabbaiae perlucida ...............................................Clear-wing Acraea ........................................................................ 387

Acraea (Acraea) rabbaiae rabbaiae ................................................Clear-wing Acraea ........................................................................ 387

Acraea (Acraea) satis ...................................................................East-coast Acraea ......................................................................... 388

Acraea (Acraea) violarum .............................................................Speckled Red Acraea .................................................................... 389

Acraea (Acraea) zetes acara .........................................................Large Spotted Acraea ................................................................... 390

Acraea (Acraea) zetes acara .........................................................Large Spotted Acraea ................................................................... 390

Acraea (Actinote) anacreon anacreon ............................................Orange Acraea ............................................................................. 391

Acraea (Actinote) cabira ...............................................................Yellow-banded Acraea ................................................................... 392

Acraea (Actinote) encedon encedon ..............................................White-barred Acraea ..................................................................... 393

Acraea (Actinote) eponina ............................................................Small Orange Acraea .................................................................... 394

Acraea (Actinote) esebria esebria .................................................Dusky Acraea ............................................................................... 395

Acraea (Actinote) igola .................................................................Dusky-veined Acraea .................................................................... 396

Acraeidae – Family ........................................................................................................................................................................... 372

Acreaea Fabricius - Subgenus........................................................................................................................................................... 372

Actinote Hübner – Subgenus ............................................................................................................................................................ 391

Actizera lucida .............................................................................Rayed Blue ................................................................................... 182

Aeropetes tulbaghia .....................................................................Table Mountain Beauty .................................................................... 85

Alaena amazoula amazoula ...........................................................Yellow Zulu .................................................................................. 183

Aloeides aranda ...........................................................................Aranda Copper ............................................................................. 184

INDEX

LATIN NAME COMMON NAME PAGE


Aloeides damarensis ....................................................................Damara Copper ............................................................................ 185

Aloeides damarensis mashona ......................................................Damara Copper ............................................................................ 185

Aloeides henningi .........................................................................Henning’s Copper ......................................................................... 186

Aloeides merces ..........................................................................Wakkerstroom Copper .................................................................. 187

Aloeides molomo molomo ............................................................Molomo Copper ............................................................................ 188

Aloeides oreas.............................................................................Oreas Copper ............................................................................... 189

Aloeides penningtoni ....................................................................Pennington’s Copper .................................................................... 190

Aloeides swanepoeli ....................................................................Swanepoel’s Copper ..................................................................... 191

Aloeides taikosama ......................................................................Dusky Copper .............................................................................. 192

Aloeides titei ...............................................................................Tite’s Copper ............................................................................... 193

Aloeides trimeni trimeni ................................................................Trimen’s Copper ........................................................................... 194

Amauris albimaculata albimaculata ................................................Layman Friar ................................................................................. 398

Amauris echeria echeria ...............................................................Chief Friar .................................................................................... 399

Amauris niavius dominicanus ........................................................Friar ............................................................................................. 400

Amauris ochlea ochlea .................................................................Novice Friar .................................................................................. 401

Andronymus neander neander .......................................................Nomad Dart .................................................................................... 15

Antanartia hippomene hippomene .................................................Southern Short-tailed Admiral ........................................................ 138

Antanartia schaeneia schaeneia ....................................................Long-tailed Admiral ....................................................................... 139

Anthene amarah amarah ...............................................................Black-striped Hairtail ..................................................................... 195

Anthene butleri ............................................................................Pale Hairtail .................................................................................. 196

Anthene butleri livida ....................................................................Pale Hairtail .................................................................................. 196

Anthene contrastata .....................................................................Mashuna Hairtail ........................................................................... 197

Anthene contrastata mashuna .......................................................Mashuna Hairtail ........................................................................... 197

Anthene definita definita ...............................................................Common Hairtail ........................................................................... 198

Anthene kersteni .........................................................................Kersten’s Hairtail .......................................................................... 199

Anthene lemnos lemnos ...............................................................Large Hairtail ................................................................................ 200

Anthene liodes .............................................................................Liodes Hairtail .............................................................................. 201

Anthene liodes bihe .....................................................................Liodes Hairtail .............................................................................. 201

Anthene millari .............................................................................Millar’s Hairtail ............................................................................. 202

Anthene minima ...........................................................................Little Hairtail ................................................................................. 203

Anthene minima minima ................................................................Little Hairtail ................................................................................. 203

Anthene otacilia otacilia................................................................Otacilia Hairtail ............................................................................. 204

Anthene princeps .........................................................................Cupreous Hairtail .......................................................................... 205

Anthene princeps princeps ...........................................................Cupreous Hairtail .......................................................................... 205

Anthene talboti ............................................................................Talbot’s Hairtail ............................................................................ 206

Aphnaeus (Paraphnaeus) hutchinsonii ...........................................Hutchinson’s Highflyer .................................................................. 207

Appias epaphia contracta .............................................................Diverse White............................................................................... 329

Appias sabina phoebe ..................................................................Albatross White ............................................................................ 330

Arisbe Hübner - Subgenus ................................................................................................................................................................ 314

Artitropa erinnys erinnys ..............................................................Bush Nightfighter ............................................................................ 16

Aslauga australis..........................................................................Southern Purple ............................................................................ 208

INDEX



Astictopterus inornatus ................................................................Modest Sylph ................................................................................. 17

Axiocerses amanga ......................................................................Bush Scarlet ................................................................................. 209

Axiocerses amanga amanga ..........................................................Bush Scarlet ................................................................................. 209

Axiocerses tjoane ........................................................................Common Scarlet ........................................................................... 210

Axiocerses tjoane tjoane ..............................................................Common Scarlet ........................................................................... 210

Azanus jesous jesous ...................................................................Topaz-spotted Blue ....................................................................... 211

Azanus mirza ...............................................................................Mirza Blue .................................................................................... 212

Azanus moriqua ...........................................................................Thorn-tree Blue ............................................................................. 213

Azanus natalensis ........................................................................Natal Spotted Blue ....................................................................... 214

Azanus ubaldus ............................................................................Velvet-spotted Blue ...................................................................... 215

Baliochila aslanga ........................................................................Common Buff ............................................................................... 216

Belenois aurota aurota .................................................................Brown-veined White ...................................................................... 331

Belenois creona severina .............................................................African Common White ................................................................. 332

Belenois gidica ............................................................................African Veined White .................................................................... 333

Belenois gidica abyssinica ............................................................African Veined White .................................................................... 333

Belenois thysa thysa ....................................................................False Dotted Border ..................................................................... 334

Belenois zochalia zochalia ............................................................Forest White ................................................................................ 335

Bicyclus anynana anynana ............................................................Squinting Bush Brown ..................................................................... 86

Bicyclus ena ................................................................................Grizzled Bush Brown ....................................................................... 87

Bicyclus safitza safitza .................................................................Common Bush Brown ..................................................................... 88

Borbo borbonica borbonica ...........................................................Olive-haired Swift ........................................................................... 18

Borbo detecta..............................................................................Rusty Swift .................................................................................... 19

Borbo fallax ................................................................................False Swift ..................................................................................... 20

Borbo fatuellus fatuellus ...............................................................Long-horned Swift .......................................................................... 21

Borbo ferruginea ..........................................................................Ferrous Swift .................................................................................. 22

Borbo ferruginea dondo ...............................................................Ferrous Swift .................................................................................. 22

Borbo gemella .............................................................................Twin Swift ...................................................................................... 23

Borbo holtzi ................................................................................Variable Swift ................................................................................. 24

Borbo lugens ...............................................................................Lesser-horned Swift ........................................................................ 25

Borbo micans ..............................................................................Marsh Swift .................................................................................... 26

Bowkeria phosphor borealis..........................................................Scarce Scarlet .............................................................................. 217

Brephidium metophis ....................................................................Tinktinkie Blue .............................................................................. 218

Byblia anvatara ............................................................................Common Joker ............................................................................. 140

Byblia anvatara acheloia ...............................................................Common Joker ............................................................................. 140

Byblia ilithyia ...............................................................................Spotted Joker .............................................................................. 141

Cacyreus lingeus .........................................................................Bush Bronze ................................................................................. 219

Cacyreus marshalli .......................................................................Geranium Blue .............................................................................. 220

Cacyreus palemon palemon ..........................................................Water Bronze ............................................................................... 221

Cacyreus tespis tespis .................................................................Water Bronze ............................................................................... 221

Cacyreus virilis ............................................................................Mocker Bronze ............................................................................. 222

Calaenorrhinus mokeezi mokeezi ..................................................Christmas Forester ......................................................................... 29

INDEX



Calleagris kobela .........................................................................Mrs Raven’s Skipper ....................................................................... 27

Caprona pillaana ..........................................................................Ragged Skipper .............................................................................. 28

Capys alphaeus ...........................................................................Orange-banded Protea-Butterfly .................................................... 223

Capys alphaeus extentus ..............................................................Orange-banded Protea-Butterfly .................................................... 223

Capys disjunctus disjunctus ..........................................................Russet Protea-Butterfly ................................................................. 224

Capys penningtoni .......................................................................Pennington’s Protea-Butterfly ........................................................ 225

Cassionympha cassius .................................................................Rainforest Brown ............................................................................ 89

Catacroptera cloanthe cloanthe ....................................................Pirate ........................................................................................... 142

Catopsilia florella .........................................................................African Vagrant ............................................................................. 336

Celaenorrhinus mokeezi mokeezi ..................................................Christmas Forester ......................................................................... 29

Charaxes achaemenes achaemenes ..............................................Bushveld Charaxes ....................................................................... 119

Charaxes brutus natalensis ...........................................................White-barred Charaxes ................................................................. 120

Charaxes candiope .....................................................................Green-veined Charaxes ................................................................. 121

Charaxes candiope candiope ........................................................Green-veined Charaxes ................................................................. 121

Charaxes castor flavifasciatus ......................................................Giant Charaxes ............................................................................. 122

Charaxes cithaeron cithaeron .......................................................Blue-spotted Charaxes .................................................................. 123

Charaxes druceanus cinadon ........................................................Silver-barred Charaxes .................................................................. 124

Charaxes druceanus druceanus ....................................................Silver-barred Charaxes .................................................................. 124

Charaxes etesipe tavetensis .........................................................Scarce Forester ............................................................................ 125

Charaxes ethalion ethalion ............................................................Satyr Charaxes ............................................................................. 126

Charaxes jahlusa argynnides .........................................................Pearl-spotted Charaxes ................................................................. 127

Charaxes jahlusa jahlusa ..............................................................Pearl-spotted Charaxes ................................................................. 127

Charaxes jasius saturnus ..............................................................Foxy Charaxes .............................................................................. 128

Charaxes karkloof karkloof ...........................................................Karkloof Charaxes ........................................................................ 129

Charaxes phaeus .........................................................................Demon Dusky Charaxes ................................................................ 130

Charaxes pondoensis ...................................................................Pondo Charaxes ........................................................................... 131

Charaxes protoclea azota .............................................................Flame-bordered Charaxes.............................................................. 132

Charaxes vansoni ........................................................................Van Son’s Charaxes ..................................................................... 133

Charaxes varanes varanes ............................................................Pearl Charaxes ............................................................................. 134

Charaxes xiphares penningtoni .....................................................Forest-King Charaxes .................................................................... 135

Charaxes zoolina zoolina ..............................................................Club-tailed Charaxes ..................................................................... 136

Charaxinae – Subfamily .................................................................................................................................................................... 119

Chilades trochylus .......................................................................Grass Jewel Blue.......................................................................... 253

Chloroselas mazoensis.................................................................Purple Gem .................................................................................. 238

Chloroselas pseudozeritis pseudozeritis ........................................Brilliant Gem ................................................................................ 226

Chrysoritis aethon .......................................................................Lydenburg Opal ............................................................................ 227

Chrysoritis chrysaor .....................................................................Burnished Opal ............................................................................. 228

Chrysoritis lycegenes ...................................................................Mooi River Opal ............................................................................ 229

Chrysoritis oreas .........................................................................Drakensberg Daisy Copper ........................................................... 230

Chrysoritis orientalis ....................................................................Eastern Opal ................................................................................ 231

Chrysoritis pelion .........................................................................Machacha Opal ............................................................................. 232

Chrysoritis phosphor borealis .......................................................Scarce Scarlet .............................................................................. 217

INDEX



Cigaritis apelles ...........................................................................Rusty Bar ..................................................................................... 298

Cigaritis ella ................................................................................Ella’s Bar ...................................................................................... 299

Cigaritis mozambica .....................................................................Mozambique Bar ........................................................................... 300

Cigaritis natalensis.......................................................................Natal Bar ...................................................................................... 301

Cigaritis phanes ...........................................................................Silvery Bar ................................................................................... 302

Cnodontes penningtoni ................................................................Pennington’s Buff ......................................................................... 233

Coeliades anchises anchises ........................................................One-pip Policeman .......................................................................... 30

Coeliades forestan forestan .........................................................Striped Policeman ........................................................................... 31

Coeliades keithloa .......................................................................Red-tab Policeman .......................................................................... 32

Coeliades keithloa keithloa ...........................................................Red-tab Policeman .......................................................................... 32

Coeliades libeon .........................................................................Spotless Policeman ........................................................................ 33

Coeliades pisistratus....................................................................Two-pip Policeman .......................................................................... 34

Coenyra aurantiaca ......................................................................Pondo Shadefly .............................................................................. 90

Coenyra hebe ..............................................................................Zulu Shadefly ................................................................................. 91

Coenyropsis natalii natalii .............................................................Natal Brown ................................................................................... 92

Colias electo electo .....................................................................Lucerne Butterfly .......................................................................... 337

Colotis agoye bowkeri ..................................................................Speckled Sulphur Tip .................................................................... 338

Colotis amata calais .....................................................................Topaz Tip ..................................................................................... 339

Colotis antevippe gavisa ..............................................................Red Tip ........................................................................................ 340

Colotis auxo ................................................................................Sulphur Orange Tip ....................................................................... 341

Colotis auxo auxo ........................................................................Sulphur Orange Tip ....................................................................... 341

Colotis celimene amina ................................................................Lilac Tip ....................................................................................... 342

Colotis danae annae ....................................................................Scarlet Tip .................................................................................... 343

Colotis eris johnstoni ...................................................................Banded Gold Tip ........................................................................... 344

Colotis erone ...............................................................................Coast Purple Tip ........................................................................... 345

Colotis euippe omphale ................................................................Smoky Orange Tip ........................................................................ 346

Colotis evagore antigone ..............................................................Small Orange Tip .......................................................................... 347

Colotis evenina evenina ...............................................................Common Orange Tip ..................................................................... 348

Colotis ione .................................................................................Bushveld Purple Tip ...................................................................... 349

Colotis pallene .............................................................................Bushveld Orange Tip ..................................................................... 350

Colotis regina ..............................................................................Queen Purple Tip .......................................................................... 351

Colotis subfasciatus subfasciatus ................................................Lemon Traveller ............................................................................ 352

Colotis vesta argillaceus ..............................................................Veined Orange ............................................................................. 353

Crudaria leroma ...........................................................................Silver-spotted Grey ....................................................................... 234

Cupidopsis cissus ........................................................................Common Meadow Blue ................................................................. 235

Cupidopsis cissus cissus .............................................................Common Meadow Blue ................................................................. 235

Cupidopsis jobates jobates...........................................................Tailed Meadow Blue ...................................................................... 236

Cymothoe alcimeda alcimeda ........................................................Battling Glider .............................................................................. 143

Cymothoe alcimeda trimeni ..........................................................Battling Glider .............................................................................. 143

Cymothoe coranus coranus ..........................................................Coast Glider ................................................................................. 144

Cynthia cardui .............................................................................Painted Lady................................................................................. 145

Danaidae – Family ............................................................................................................................................................................ 398

INDEX



Danaus chrysippus aegyptius........................................................African Monarch ........................................................................... 402

Danaus chrysippus orientis ...........................................................African Monarch ........................................................................... 402

Deloneura millari millari ................................................................Millar’s Buff .................................................................................. 237

Desmolycaena mazoensis.............................................................Purple Gem .................................................................................. 238

Deudorix (Virachola) antalus .........................................................Brown Playboy .............................................................................. 239

Deudorix (Virachola) dariaves .......................................................Black-and-Orange Playboy ............................................................. 240

Deudorix (Virachola) dinochares ...................................................Apricot Playboy ............................................................................ 241

Deudorix (Virachola) dinomenes dinomenes ..................................Orange Playboy ............................................................................ 242

Deudorix (Virachola) diocles .........................................................Orange-barred Playboy .................................................................. 243

Deudorix (Virachola) vansoni ........................................................Van Son’s Playboy ........................................................................ 244

Dingana alaedeus.........................................................................Wakkerstroom Widow ..................................................................... 93

Dingana bowkeri bowkeri..............................................................Bowker’s Widow ............................................................................. 94

Dingana dingana ..........................................................................Dingaan’s Widow ............................................................................ 95

Dingana dingana dingana ..............................................................Dingaan’s Widow ............................................................................ 95

Dira oxylus ..................................................................................Pondoland Widow ........................................................................... 96

Dixeia charina charina ..................................................................African Small White ...................................................................... 354

Dixeia doxo .................................................................................Black-veined White ....................................................................... 355

Dixeia doxo parva ........................................................................Black-veined White ....................................................................... 355

Dixeia pigea .................................................................................Ant-heap White ............................................................................. 356

Dixeia spilleri ...............................................................................Spiller’s Sulphur Yellow ................................................................ 357

Durbania amakosa albescens ........................................................Amakosa Rocksitter ...................................................................... 245

Durbania amakosa amakosa .........................................................Amakosa Rocksitter ...................................................................... 245

Durbania amakosa ayresi ..............................................................Amakosa Rocksitter ...................................................................... 245

Durbania amakosa flavida .............................................................Amakosa Rocksitter ...................................................................... 245

Durbania amakosa natalensis ........................................................Amakosa Rocksitter ...................................................................... 245

Durbania limbata ..........................................................................Natal Rocksitter ............................................................................ 246

Eagris nottoana nottoana ..............................................................Rufous-winged Elfin ........................................................................ 35

Eicochrysops hippocrates .............................................................White-tipped Blue ......................................................................... 247

Eicochrysops messapus mahallakoaena .........................................Cupreous Blue .............................................................................. 248

Eicochrysops messapus messapus ...............................................Cupreous Blue .............................................................................. 248

Eretis djaelaelae .........................................................................Marbled Elf ..................................................................................... 36

Eretis umbra umbra .....................................................................Small Marbled Elf ............................................................................ 37

Eronia cleodora cleodora ..............................................................Vine-leaf Vagrant .......................................................................... 358

Eronia leda ..................................................................................Autumn-leaf Vagrant ..................................................................... 359

Euchrysops barkeri ......................................................................Barker’s Smoky Blue .................................................................... 249

Euchrysops dolorosa ....................................................................Sabi Smoky Blue .......................................................................... 250

Euchrysops malathana ..................................................................Common Smoky Blue .................................................................... 251

Euchrysops osiris osiris ................................................................Osiris Smoky Blue ........................................................................ 252

Euphaedra neophron neophron .....................................................Gold-banded Forester ................................................................... 146

Eurema (Eurema) desjardinsii regularis ..........................................Angled Grass Yellow ..................................................................... 361

Eurema (Maiva) brigitta brigitta .....................................................Broad-bordered Grass Yellow ........................................................ 360

INDEX



Eurema (Maiva) desjardinsii marshalli ............................................Angled Grass Yellow ..................................................................... 361

Eurema (Terias) hecabe solifera ....................................................Common Grass Yellow .................................................................. 362

Euriphene (Euryphura) achlys ........................................................Mottled-green Nymph ................................................................... 147

Euryphura achlys ..........................................................................Mottled-green Nymph ................................................................... 147

Eurytela dryope ............................................................................Golden Piper ................................................................................ 148

Eurytela dryope angulata ..............................................................Golden Piper ................................................................................ 148

Eurytela hiarbas ...........................................................................Pied Piper .................................................................................... 149

Eurytela hiarbas angustata ............................................................Pied Piper .................................................................................... 149

Euxanthe (Euxanthe) wakefieldi .....................................................Forest Queen ............................................................................... 137

Fresna nyassae ...........................................................................Variegated Acraea Skipper .............................................................. 38

Freyeria trochylus ........................................................................Grass Jewel Blue.......................................................................... 253

Gegenes hottentota ....................................................................Marsh Hottentot Skipper ................................................................. 39

Gegenes niso niso .......................................................................Common Hottentot Skipper ............................................................. 40

Gegenes pumilio .........................................................................Dark Hottentot Skipper ................................................................... 41

Gegenes pumilio gambica .............................................................Dark Hottentot Skipper ................................................................... 41

Gnophodes betsimena .................................................................Yellow-banded Twilight Brown ......................................................... 97

Gnophodes betsimena diversa ......................................................Yellow-banded Twilight Brown ......................................................... 97

Gomalia elma elma .......................................................................Green-marbled Skipper ................................................................... 42

Graphium – Genus ........................................................................................................................................................................... 314

Graphium (Arisbe) angolanus angolanus .......................................Angola White Lady ........................................................................ 314

Graphium (Arisbe) antheus ...........................................................Large striped Swordtail ................................................................. 315

Graphium (Arisbe) colonna ...........................................................Mamba Swordtail .......................................................................... 316

Graphium (Arisbe) leonidas leonidas .............................................Veined Swordtail .......................................................................... 317

Graphium (Arisbe) morania ...........................................................White Lady ................................................................................... 318

Graphium (Arisbe) policenes policenes ..........................................Small Striped Swordtail ................................................................. 319

Graphium (Arisbe) polistratus .......................................................Dancing Swordtail ......................................................................... 320

Graphium (Arisbe) porthaon porthaon............................................Cream-striped Swordtail ................................................................ 321

Hamanumida daedalus ..................................................................Guinea-fowl .................................................................................. 150

Harpendyreus noquasa .................................................................Marsh Blue ................................................................................... 254

Harpendyreus tsomo ....................................................................Tsomo Blue .................................................................................. 255

Hemiolaus caeculus caeculus .......................................................Azure Hairstreak ........................................................................... 257

Henotesia perspicua ....................................................................Marsh Patroller ............................................................................... 98

Hesperiidae - Family ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Hesperioidea - Superfamily ................................................................................................................................................................. 11

Heteropsis perspicua perspicua ....................................................Marsh Patroller ............................................................................... 98

Hypolimnas anthedon ...................................................................Variable Diadem ........................................................................... 151

Hypolimnas anthedon wahlbergi ....................................................Variable Diadem ........................................................................... 151

Hypolimnas deceptor deceptor .....................................................Deceptive Diadem ........................................................................ 152

Hypolimnas misippus ....................................................................Common Diadem .......................................................................... 153

Hypolycaena (Hemiolaus) caeculus caeculus ..................................Azure Hairstreak ........................................................................... 257

Hypolycaena buxtoni buxtoni.........................................................Buxton’s Hairstreak ...................................................................... 256

Hypolycaena lochmophila .............................................................Coastal Hairstreak ........................................................................ 258

INDEX



Hypolycaena philippus philippus ....................................................Purple-brown Hairstreak ................................................................ 259

Iolaus (Aphniolaus) pallene ...........................................................Saffrron Sapphire ......................................................................... 260

Iolaus (Argiolaus) silarus silarus ....................................................Southern Sapphire ........................................................................ 261

Iolaus (Argiolaus) silas silas ..........................................................Southern Sapphire ........................................................................ 261

Iolaus (Epamera) aemulus aemulus ................................................Short-barred Sapphire ................................................................... 262

Iolaus (Epamera) alienus alienus ...................................................Brown-line Sapphire ...................................................................... 263

Iolaus (Epamera) diametra ............................................................Natal Yellow-banded Sapphire ....................................................... 264

Iolaus (Epamera) diametra natalica ................................................Natal Yellow-banded Sapphire ....................................................... 264

Iolaus (Epamera) sidus .................................................................Red-line Sapphire ......................................................................... 265

Iolaus (Iolaphilus) trimeni .............................................................Trimen’s Sapphire ......................................................................... 266

Iolaus (Pseudiolaus) lulua .............................................................White Spotted Sapphire ................................................................ 267

Iolaus (Stugeta) bowkeri ...............................................................Bowker’s Sapphire ........................................................................ 268

Iolaus (Stugeta) bowkeri bowkeri ..................................................Bowker’s Sapphire ........................................................................ 268

Junonia hierta ..............................................................................Yellow Pansy ................................................................................ 154

Junonia hierta cebrene .................................................................Yellow Pansy ................................................................................ 154

Junonia natalica natalica ...............................................................Brown Pansy ................................................................................ 155

Junonia oenone oenone ...............................................................Blue Pansy ................................................................................... 156

Junonia orithya ............................................................................Eyed Pansy................................................................................... 157

Junonia orithya madagascariensis .................................................Eyed Pansy................................................................................... 157

Junonia terea ...............................................................................Soldier Pansy ............................................................................... 158

Junonia terea elgiva .....................................................................Soldier Pansy ............................................................................... 158

Kedestes barberae barberae ........................................................Barber’s Ranger ............................................................................ 43

Kedestes callicles ........................................................................Pale Ranger .................................................................................... 44

Kedestes chaca ...........................................................................Shaka’s Ranger .............................................................................. 45

Kedestes lenis .............................................................................Unique Ranger ................................................................................ 46

Kedestes lenis lenis .....................................................................Unique Ranger ................................................................................ 46

Kedestes lepenula .......................................................................Chequered Ranger .......................................................................... 47

Kedestes macomo .......................................................................Macomo Ranger ............................................................................. 48

Kedestes mohozutza ....................................................................Fulvous Ranger ............................................................................... 49

Kedestes nerva nerva ..................................................................Scarce Ranger ................................................................................ 50

Kedestes niveostriga ...................................................................Dark Ranger ................................................................................... 51

Kedestes niveostriga niveostriga ..................................................Dark Ranger ................................................................................... 51

Kedestes wallengrenii wallengrenii ................................................Wallengren’s Ranger ....................................................................... 52

Lachnocnema bibulus ...................................................................Common Woolly Legs ................................................................... 269

Lachnocnema durbani ...................................................................D’Urban’s Woolly Legs ................................................................. 270

Lachnoptera ayresii ......................................................................Blotched Leopard ......................................................................... 159

Lampides boeticus .......................................................................Lucerne Blue ................................................................................ 271

Lepidochrysops asteris ................................................................Brilliant Blue ................................................................................. 272

Lepidochrysops hypopolia ............................................................Morant’s Blue ............................................................................... 273

Lepidochrysops ignota .................................................................Zulu Blue ...................................................................................... 274

Lepidochrysops ketsi ...................................................................Ketsi Blue .................................................................................... 275

Lepidochrysops ketsi leucomacula ................................................Ketsi Blue .................................................................................... 275

INDEX



Lepidochrysops patricia ................................................................Patricia Blue ................................................................................. 276

Lepidochrysops pephredo ............................................................Estcourt Blue ................................................................................ 277

Lepidochrysops plebeia plebeia ....................................................Twin-spot Blue .............................................................................. 278

Lepidochrysops procera ...............................................................Potchefstroom Blue ...................................................................... 279

Lepidochrysops swanepoeli ..........................................................Swanepoel’s Blue ......................................................................... 280

Lepidochrysops tantalus ...............................................................King Blue ..................................................................................... 281

Lepidochrysops variabilis .............................................................Variable Blue ................................................................................ 282

Leptomyrina (Gonatomyrina) gorgias gorgias .................................Common Black-eye ....................................................................... 283

Leptomyrina (Leptomyrina) hirundo ...............................................Tailed Black-eye ........................................................................... 284

Leptosia alcesta inalcesta ............................................................African Wood White ...................................................................... 363

Leptotes babaulti .........................................................................Babault’s Blue .............................................................................. 285

Leptotes brevidentatus ................................................................Short-toothed Blue ....................................................................... 286

Leptotes pirithous ........................................................................Common Blue ............................................................................... 287

Leptotes pirithous pirithous ..........................................................Common Blue ............................................................................... 287

Leptotes pulchra ..........................................................................Sesbania Blue .............................................................................. 288

Leucochitonea levubu ...................................................................White-cloaked Skipper .................................................................... 53

Libythea labdaca laius ..................................................................African Snout ............................................................................... 181

Libytheidae – Family ......................................................................................................................................................................... 181

Libytheinae – Subfamily .................................................................................................................................................................... 181

Lipteninae – Subfamily ..................................................................................................................................................................... 182

Lycaena clarki ..............................................................................Eastern Sorrel Copper .................................................................. 289

Lycaenidae – Family ......................................................................................................................................................................... 182

Melanitis leda ..............................................................................Twilight Brown ................................................................................ 99

Melanitis leda helena....................................................................Twilight Brown ................................................................................ 99

Metisella aegipan aegipan ............................................................Mountain Sylph ............................................................................... 54

Metisella malgacha malgacha ........................................................Grassveld Sylph ............................................................................. 55

Metisella meninx ..........................................................................Marsh Sylph ................................................................................... 56

Metisella metis ............................................................................Gold-spotted Sylph ......................................................................... 57

Metisella metis paris ....................................................................Gold-spotted Sylph ......................................................................... 57

Metisella syrinx ............................................................................Bamboo Sylph ................................................................................ 58

Moltena fiara ...............................................................................Strelitzia Nightfighter ...................................................................... 59

Mylothris agathina agathina ..........................................................Common Dotted Border ................................................................ 364

Mylothris rueppellii haemus ..........................................................Twin Dotted Border ...................................................................... 365

Mylothris trimenia ........................................................................Trimen’s Dotted Border ................................................................. 366

Myrina dermaptera .......................................................................Lesser Fig-tree Blue...................................................................... 290

Myrina dermaptera dermaptera .....................................................Lesser Fig-tree Blue...................................................................... 290

Myrina silenus .............................................................................Fig-tree Blue ................................................................................. 291

Myrina silenus ficedula .................................................................Fig-tree Blue ................................................................................. 291

Neita extensa ..............................................................................Savanna Brown ............................................................................. 100

Neita lotenia ................................................................................Loteni Brown ................................................................................ 101

Neita neita...................................................................................Neita Brown ................................................................................. 102

Nepheronia argia varia .................................................................Large Vagrant ............................................................................... 367

INDEX



Nepheronia argia variegata ...........................................................Large Vagrant ............................................................................... 367

Nepheronia buquetii buquetii ........................................................Buquet’s White ............................................................................. 368

Nepheronia thalassina sinalata ......................................................Cambridge Vagrant ....................................................................... 369

Neptis alta ...................................................................................Old Sailor ..................................................................................... 160

Neptis goochii .............................................................................Streaked Sailor ............................................................................. 161

Neptis jordani ..............................................................................Jordan’s Sailor ............................................................................. 162

Neptis laeta .................................................................................Common Sailor ............................................................................. 163

Neptis saclava .............................................................................Spotted Sailor .............................................................................. 164

Neptis saclava marpessa ..............................................................Spotted Sailor .............................................................................. 164

Netrobalane canopus ...................................................................Buff-tipped Skipper ......................................................................... 60

Nymphalidae – Family ............................................................................................................................................................... 119, 138

Nymphalinae – Subfamily .................................................................................................................................................................. 138

Nymphaloidea – Superfamily ................................................................................................................................ 85, 119, 138, 372, 398

Orachrysops ariadne ....................................................................Karkloof Blue ................................................................................ 292

Orachrysops lacrimosa .................................................................Wolkberg Blue .............................................................................. 293

Orachrysops nasutus remus .........................................................Nosy Blue .................................................................................... 293

Orachrysops subravus..................................................................Grizzled Blue ................................................................................ 293

Oraidium barberae .......................................................................Dwarf Blue ................................................................................... 294

Ornipholidotos peucetia ...............................................................Pennington’s Glasswing ................................................................ 295

Ornipholidotos peucetia penningtoni .............................................Pennington’s Glasswing ................................................................ 295

Papilio (Princeps) constantinus constantinus .................................Constantine’s Swallowtail ............................................................. 322

Papilio (Princeps) dardanus cenea .................................................Mocker Swallowtail ....................................................................... 323

Papilio (Princeps) demodocus demodocus .....................................Christmas Butterfly ....................................................................... 324

Papilio (Princeps) echerioides echerioides .....................................White-banded Swallowtail .............................................................. 325

Papilio (Princeps) euphranor .........................................................Bush Kite ..................................................................................... 326

Papilio (Princeps) nireus lyaeus ....................................................Green-banded Swallowtail ............................................................. 327

Papilio (Princeps) ophidicephalus ayresi ........................................Emperor Swallowtail ...................................................................... 328

Papilio (Princeps) ophidicephalus phalusco ....................................Emperor Swallowtail ...................................................................... 328

Papilio (Princeps) ophidicephalus zuluensis ...................................Emperor Swallowtail ...................................................................... 328

Papilionidae – Family ........................................................................................................................................................................ 314

Papilionoidae – Superfamily ...................................................................................................................................................... 314, 329

Paralethe dendrophilus indosa ......................................................Forest Brown ........................................................................ 103, 104

Paralethe indosa ..........................................................................Forest Brown ................................................................................ 103

Paralethe indosa albina .................................................................Forest Brown ................................................................................ 103

Paralethe indosa indosa ...............................................................Forest Brown ................................................................................ 104

Pardopsis punctatissima ...............................................................Polka Dot ..................................................................................... 397

Parnara monasi ............................................................................Water Watchman ............................................................................ 61

Parnara naso ...............................................................................Water Watchman ............................................................................ 61

Parnara naso monasi ....................................................................Water Watchman ............................................................................ 61

Parosmodes morantii morantii .......................................................Morant’s Skipper ............................................................................ 62

Pelopidas mathias ........................................................................Black-banded Swift ......................................................................... 63

Pelopidas thrax ............................................................................White-banded Swift ......................................................................... 64

INDEX



Pelopidas thrax inconspicua ..........................................................White-banded Swift ......................................................................... 64

Pentila tropicalis tropicalis ............................................................Spotted Buff ................................................................................. 296

Phalanta eurytis eurytis ................................................................Forest Leopard ............................................................................. 165

Phalanta phalantha .......................................................................Common Leopard ......................................................................... 166

Phalanta phalantha aethiopica .......................................................Common Leopard ......................................................................... 166

Physcaeneura panda ....................................................................Dark Webbed Ringlet .................................................................... 105

Pieridae – Family .............................................................................................................................................................................. 329

Pierinae – Subfamily ......................................................................................................................................................................... 329

Pinacopteryx eriphia eriphia ..........................................................Zebra White ................................................................................. 370

Platylesches ayresii .....................................................................Peppered Hopper ............................................................................ 65

Platylesches moritili .....................................................................Honey Hopper ................................................................................ 66

Platylesches neba ........................................................................Flower-girl Hopper .......................................................................... 67

Platylesches robustus robustus ....................................................Robust Hopper ............................................................................... 67

Pontia (Pontia) helice helice ..........................................................Meadow White ............................................................................. 371

Precis antilope .............................................................................Darker Commodore ...................................................................... 167

Precis archesia archesia ...............................................................Garden Commodore...................................................................... 168

Precis ceryne ceryne ....................................................................Marsh Commodore ....................................................................... 169

Precis octavia ..............................................................................Gaudy Commodore ....................................................................... 170

Precis octavia sesamus ................................................................Gaudy Commodore ....................................................................... 170

Precis tugela tugela .....................................................................Dry Leaf Commodore .................................................................... 171

Princeps Hübner – Subgenus ............................................................................................................................................................ 322

Protogoniomorpha anacardii .........................................................Clouded Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................... 175

Protogoniomorpha anacardii nebulosa ..........................................Clouded Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................... 175

Protogoniomorpha parhassus .......................................................Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................................ 176

Pseudacraea boisduvalii ...............................................................Boisduval’s false Acraea ............................................................... 172

Pseudacraea boisduvalii trimenii ...................................................Boisduval’s false Acraea ............................................................... 172

Pseudacraea eurytus ....................................................................False Wanderer ............................................................................ 173

Pseudacraea eurytus imitator........................................................False Wanderer ............................................................................ 173

Pseudacraea lucretia ....................................................................Pied False Acraea ......................................................................... 174

Pseudacraea lucretia tarquinia ......................................................Pied False Acraea ......................................................................... 174

Pseudonacaduba sichela sichela ...................................................Dusky Blue .................................................................................. 297

Pseudonympha gaika ....................................................................Gaika Brown ................................................................................. 106

Pseudonympha machacha .............................................................Machacha Brown .......................................................................... 107

Pseudonympha magoides .............................................................False Silver-bottom Brown ............................................................ 108

Pseudonympha paludis .................................................................Paludis Brown............................................................................... 109

Pseudonympha penningtoni ..........................................................Pennington’s Brown ...................................................................... 110

Pseudonympha poetula ................................................................Drakensberg Brown ...................................................................... 111

Pseudonympha varii .....................................................................Vari’s Brown ................................................................................ 112

Salamis anacardii .........................................................................Clouded Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................... 175

Salamis anacardii nebulosa ...........................................................Clouded Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................... 175

Salamis parhassus .......................................................................Mother-of-Pearl ............................................................................ 176

Sallya amulia ...............................................................................Rosa’s Tree Nymph ...................................................................... 177

INDEX



Sallya amulia rosa ........................................................................Rosa’s Tree Nymph ...................................................................... 177

Sallya boisduvali boisduvali ...........................................................Boisduval’s Tree Nymph ................................................................ 178

Sallya morantii morantii ................................................................Morant’s Tree Nymph ................................................................... 179

Sallya natalensis ..........................................................................Natal Tree Nymph ......................................................................... 180

Sarangesa motozi ........................................................................Forest Elfin ..................................................................................... 68

Sarangesa phidyle ........................................................................Small Elfin ...................................................................................... 69

Sarangesa ruona ..........................................................................Ruona Elfin ..................................................................................... 70

Sarangesa seineri ........................................................................Dark Elfin ....................................................................................... 71

Sarangesa seineri durbana ...........................................................Dark Elfin ....................................................................................... 71

Satyridae – Family .............................................................................................................................................................................. 85

Satyrini – Tribe ................................................................................................................................................................................ 116

Serradinga bowkeri bowkeri..........................................................Bowker’s Widow ............................................................................. 94

Serradinga clarki dracomontana ....................................................Clark’s Widow ................................................................................ 94

Sevenia boisduvali boisduvali ........................................................Boisduval’s Tree Nymph ................................................................ 178

Sevenia morantii morantii .............................................................Morant’s Tree Nymph ................................................................... 179

Sevenia natalensis .......................................................................Natal Tree Nymph ......................................................................... 180

Sevenia rosa ...............................................................................Rosa’s Tree Nymph ...................................................................... 177

Spialia asterodia ..........................................................................Star Sandman ................................................................................. 72

Spialia colotes .............................................................................Bushveld Sandman ......................................................................... 73

Spialia colotes transvaaliae ..........................................................Bushveld Sandman ......................................................................... 73

Spialia confusa confusa ................................................................Confusing Sandman ........................................................................ 74

Spialia delagoae...........................................................................Delagoa Sandman ........................................................................... 75

Spialia depauperata ......................................................................Wandering Sandman ....................................................................... 76

Spialia depauperata australis ........................................................Wandering Sandman ....................................................................... 76

Spialia diomus .............................................................................Common Sandman .......................................................................... 77

Spialia diomus ferax .....................................................................Common Sandman .......................................................................... 77

Spialia dromus .............................................................................Forest Sandman ............................................................................. 78

Spialia mafa mafa .........................................................................Mafa Sandman................................................................................ 79

Spialia spio ..................................................................................Mountian Sandman ......................................................................... 80

Spindasis appelles .......................................................................Rusty Bar ..................................................................................... 298

Spindasis ella ..............................................................................Ella’s Bar ...................................................................................... 299

Spindasis mozambica ...................................................................Mozambique Bar ........................................................................... 300

Spindasis natalensis.....................................................................Natal Bar ...................................................................................... 301

Spindasis phanes .........................................................................Silvery Bar ................................................................................... 302

Stugeta bowkeri bowkeri ..............................................................Bowker’s Sapphire ........................................................................ 268

Stygionympha scotina scotina .......................................................Eastern Hillside Brown .................................................................. 113

Stygionympha wichgrafi wichgrafi ..................................................Wichgraf’s Brown ......................................................................... 114

Tagiades flesus ............................................................................Clouded Forester ............................................................................ 81

Tarucus bowkeri bowkeri ..............................................................Bowker’s Blue .............................................................................. 303

Tarucus bowkeri transvaalensis ....................................................Bowker’s Blue .............................................................................. 303

Tarucus sybaris sybaris ................................................................Dotted Blue .................................................................................. 304

Telchinia anacreon .......................................................................Orange Acraea ............................................................................. 391

INDEX



Telchinia cabira ............................................................................Yellow-banded Acraea ................................................................... 392

Telchinia encedon encedon ...........................................................White-barred Acraea ..................................................................... 393

Telchinia eponina .........................................................................Small Orange Acraea .................................................................... 394

Telchinia esebria ..........................................................................Dusky Acraea ............................................................................... 395

Telchinia igola ..............................................................................Dusky-veined Acraea .................................................................... 396

Teracolus agoye bowkeri ..............................................................Speckled Sulphur Tip .................................................................... 338

Teracolus eris eris .......................................................................Banded Gold Tip ........................................................................... 344

Teracolus subfasciatus subfasciatus .............................................Lemon Traveller ............................................................................ 352

Teriomima zuluana .......................................................................Zulu Buff ...................................................................................... 305

Thestor basutus basutus ..............................................................Basuto Skolly ............................................................................... 306

Torynesis pringlei .........................................................................Pringle’s Widow ............................................................................ 115

Tsitana tsita .................................................................................Dismal Sylph .................................................................................. 82

Tuxentius calice calice ..................................................................White Pie ..................................................................................... 307

Tuxentius melaena melaena ..........................................................Black Pie ...................................................................................... 308

Uranothauma nubifer ....................................................................Black Heart .................................................................................. 309

Uranothauma nubifer nubifer .........................................................Black Heart .................................................................................. 309

Vanessa cardui ............................................................................Painted Lady................................................................................. 145

Vanessa hippomene hippomene ....................................................Southern Spot-tailed Admiral ......................................................... 138

Virachola antalus .........................................................................Brown Playboy .............................................................................. 239

Virachola dariaves........................................................................Black-and-Orange Playboy ............................................................. 240

Virachola dinochares ....................................................................Apricot Playboy ............................................................................ 241

Virachola dinomenes ....................................................................Orange Playboy ............................................................................ 242

Virachola diocles .........................................................................Orange-barred Playboy .................................................................. 243

Virachola vansoni .........................................................................Van Son’s Playboy ........................................................................ 244

Ypthima asterope asterope ...........................................................African Ringlet .............................................................................. 116

Ypthima granulosa .......................................................................Granular Ringlet ............................................................................ 117

Ypthima impura paupera ...............................................................Bushveld Ringlet ........................................................................... 118

Ypthima impure ............................................................................Bushveld Ringlet ........................................................................... 118

Zenonia zeno ...............................................................................Orange-spotted Hopper ................................................................... 83

Zintha hintza hintza ......................................................................Hintza Blue ................................................................................... 310

Zizeeria knysna ............................................................................Sooty Blue ................................................................................... 311

Zizina antanossa ..........................................................................Clover Blue .................................................................................. 312

Zizina otis antanossa....................................................................Clover Blue .................................................................................. 312

Zizula hylax..................................................................................Gaika Blue ................................................................................... 313

Zophopetes dysmephila................................................................Palm-tree Nightfighter ..................................................................... 84

INDEX


the butterflies (lepidoptera) of kwazulu-natal

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