Veined orange tip

Introduction: Veined Orange (Colotis (C.) vesta mutans) is also called a Veined Tip. They fly slowly close to the ground in an open savannah habitat. Vesta originates from Roman mythology; the striking colours of this butterfly are constant with Vesta being the goddess of the hearth.

Distribution: Northern Namibia.

Breeding/Larval food: Feeds from flowers.

Colouration: There are some differences between wet and dry-season forms. Dry-season forms have a pinkish-buff tinge on the undersides.

On the wing: More abundant in the summer months but can be seen throughout the year.

Wingspan: Male and female: 35 to 40mm.