Strymon istapa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Strymon istapa |
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| Female, Grand Cayman | |
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| Cuba | |
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| Genus: |
Strymon
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| Species: |
S. istapa
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| Binomial name | |
| Strymon istapa (Reakirt, [1867])
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The Mallow Hairstreak (scientific name: Strymon istapa) is a small, active butterfly. It is also known by other names like the mallow-scrub hairstreak, dotted hairstreak, or Hewitson's hairstreak. This butterfly is diurnal, which means it is active during the daytime. You can find Mallow Hairstreaks in many places, from the southern United States all the way through Central America. They also live in parts of the Caribbean, including Cuba and Grand Cayman. Sometimes, they are even seen in South America.
About the Mallow Hairstreak Butterfly
Mallow Hairstreaks are often seen rubbing their back wings together. Scientists believe they do this to draw attention to special scales on their hindwings. These scales look like antennae, which are the feelers on an insect's head. This trick, called mimicry, might help confuse predators. If a bird or lizard tries to attack the fake antennae, the butterfly can escape with only a small bit of its wing damaged.
Where Mallow Hairstreaks Live
These butterflies prefer xeric habitats. This means they like dry areas with shrubs and hardy plants, like deserts or scrublands. You can often spot them in places where people have cleared land, like open fields or areas with lots of overgrown weeds. This is because land clearing can create the perfect sunny, open spaces that these butterflies enjoy. They are common in both rural and suburban areas.
See also
In Spanish: Raya de malva para niños
