The Zebra Hairstreak (Panthiades bathildis) is a beautiful butterfly with a striking zebra-like pattern, black with white stripes and orange coloration near the head and tail. It is sometimes called the Zebra Cross-Streak.
Like other hairstreaks, it is difficult for predators to tell the front, or the back, of the butterfly. The ends of the wings look like antennae, providing a better chance of survival against predators.
It ranges from extreme southern Texas, where it is uncommon, southward into Mexico, Central America and northern Brazil.
Zebra Hairstreak Butterfly |