Satyrium w-album WHITE LETTER HAIRSTREAK

Taxonomy Identification: Family Lycaenidae. First named by Knoch, 1782

Colour: The topside (recto) wings of box sexes are a dark brown with a small orange spot in the bottom corner of the hindwing. The male has a small pale spot on the forewings made up of scent scales. The undersides are a lighter brown with a thin white line, the “hairstreak”, which gives this group of butterflies their name. On the hindwing this streak zigzags to form a letter W (or M) from which this species gets its name.The outer edge of the hindwing has an orange border.

Size: Wingspan 26-36 mm

Comments & Applications:  This butterfly is widespread but uncommon across Europe, found as far as Siberia, into Asia, Korea, and Japan. In Britain this species is local and isolated having suffered a population demise as a result of Dutch elm disease in the 1970s and early 1980s, especially in southern sites. There was concern that this  butterfly might become extinct in the British Isles. However there are a few surviving colonies throughout England. We are very pleased to offer pristine captive bred examples.

Our unique selection of British and European butterflies is a perfect stepping stone into building your own cabinet reference collection. Also useful in education and taxonomy. An ideal subject for closeup photography, film, media, artistry, interior design, craft frames and dome applications.

Our British and European butterflies are all ethically sourced, they originate from either captive bred stock, or old antique collections. Butterfly collecting within this ethical boundary is perfectly sustainable and in no way harms wild populations. Why not start your own butterfly reference collection today for posterity.

Format: Supplied SET, wings spread, mounted on a pin, cabinet ready with locational data

More Information: External link