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This is a butterfly that belongs to the lycanidae family. Other than in Sri Lanka it is native to India, Myanmar, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012) and it is protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No. 22 of 2009.

This is a tiny butterfly about the size of a human fingernail and has a weak fluttering flight. It often fly’s close to the ground and can be found in large numbers settling on damp places. They often fly in the company of other Lycanid species such as the Malayan and the Lime Blue.

The female is known to lay its eggs on Bol Pana Glycosmis angustifolia Yaki Naran, Wal Dehi  Atalantia zeylanica both of which are found in abundance at Wilpattu. I have seen this species through out the country up to an altitude of about 1500 meters.

In Wilpattu this species can be seen settling on damp patches and edges of puddles of water on the road. They can be easily overlooked due to their small size. It is essential that you lie flat on the ground to photograph these butterflies. Thus unless you are occupying a park bungalow or at a place where you allowed to descend from the vehicle it is impossible to photograph them within the park. As with all small butterfly species, that settle on damp ground, one needs to possess patience, perseverance an ideally a good macro lens, to succeed in capturing good images of this pretty butterfly.