Rekoa palegon

The gold-bordered hairstreak can be distinguished from other Rekoa species and similar lycaenids by the distinctive gold marginal band on the wings combined with its specific geographic range. In southern Texas, where it is a rare stray, it may be confused with other hairstreak species; the timing of occurrence (early November) and the gold border pattern are key distinguishing features. The small size (23–28 mm wingspan) also helps separate it from larger lycaenids.

Small butterfly with wingspan 23–28 mm. The common name refers to a gold-colored border on the wings, characteristic of hairstreak butterflies in the genus Rekoa. Typical lycaenid morphology with slender body and relatively short, rounded wings.

Specific habitat preferences are not well documented in available sources. The species occurs across a broad latitudinal range from Argentina to Mexico, suggesting adaptability to varied Neotropical and subtropical conditions. Adults have been observed in areas where host plants of the Asteraceae family and nectar sources (Senecio, Eupatorium) are present.

Native to the Neotropical region, ranging from Argentina northward through Central America to Mexico and the West Indies. A rare stray has been recorded from southern Texas, representing the northernmost extent of its range.

One generation per year. Adults are on wing from May to December in Mexico. In southern Texas, adults have been recorded in early November. The extended flight period in Mexico suggests regional variation in phenology across its broad latitudinal range.

Adults feed on nectar from flowers of Senecio and Eupatorium species. Larvae feed on a wide range of plants, including species in the Asteraceae family.

• Senecio - nectar sourceadult feeding
• Eupatorium - nectar sourceadult feeding
• Asteraceae - larval hostlarvae feed on various species in this family

One generation per year (univoltine). Developmental stages include egg, larva, pupa, and adult, following the typical complete metamorphosis of Lepidoptera. Specific details of larval and pupal stages are not documented in available sources.

Adults function as pollinators when feeding on nectar from Senecio and Eupatorium flowers. Larvae are herbivores that consume Asteraceae foliage. The species contributes to local biodiversity as a component of lycaenid communities across its broad Neotropical range.

Occasional interest to butterfly observers in southern Texas due to its status as a rare stray. No significant economic or agricultural impact documented. The species is not known to be threatened or of conservation concern.

• Other Rekoa speciesShare the genus and general hairstreak morphology; distinguished by specific wing pattern details and geographic distribution
• Other Lycaenidae hairstreaksSimilar small size and wing shape; the gold-bordered pattern and confirmed occurrence records help separate R. palegon from sympatric species

• Lycaenidae
• butterfly
• hairstreak
• Neotropical
• univoltine
• nectar feeder
• Asteraceae herbivore

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy