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Boulder butterfly pair

Boulder butterfly pair

Boulder butterfly pair

These boulder butterflies (Lycaena boldenarum) display their camouflaged undersides. The depth of colour varies according to the habitat. Although this species is classed as a copper butterfly, males have an almost purple, iridescent lustre on their wings. It is New Zealand’s smallest butterfly, with a wingspan of 1 centimetre.

About this item

Department of Conservation
Reference: 10040628
Photograph by Gregory H. Shirley

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