Tailed meadow blue
Cupidopsis jobates jobates
Fun Fact: Tailed Meadow Blue (C. jobates jobates) is a grassland species. It is not unusual for them to be seen flying with pieces missing from their hindwings as birds and lizards mistake the tail for a 'false head'.
Introduction: Tailed Meadow Blue (C. jobates jobates) is a grassland species. It is not unusual for them to be seen flying with pieces missing from their hindwings as birds and lizards mistake the tail for a 'false head'.
Distribution: Northern Namibia.
Breeding/Larval food: Slug-shaped larvae dig into host plants. The head is hidden under the body.
Colouration: Conspicuous orange-edged lunule and tails. Underside hindwing spots are reddish instead of black.
On the wing: September to May.
Wingspan: 23 to 32mm.
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