Lilac tip

Introduction: Lilac Tips (Colotis (C.) celimene) hover 'hummingbird' fashion above the ground close to a tree, an action it repeats frequently, especially along roadsides.

Distribution: Damaraland , Windhoek, Otjiwarongo, Okahandja, Brandberg Mountain, Otavi, Kuiseb Canyon, Sesfontein, Rehoboth.

Breeding/Larval food: Eggs are laid on ringwood trees (Maerua schinzii). Leaves from this species are browsed by livestock.

Colouration: Males are white above with some lilac on the tips of the forewing. The undersides of the male and female are the same.

On the wing: Throughout the year especially in the summer months.

Wingspan: Male and female: 35 to 40mm.