White-letter Hairstreak vs Banded Chalcid Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | White-letter Hairstreak | Banded Chalcid Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Satyrium w-album | Chalcis sispes |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Chalcididae |
| Size | Wingspan 26-30mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Hedgerows |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | Southern Europe, North Africa |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
White-letter Hairstreak
A small dark butterfly with a distinctive W-shaped white line on the hindwing underside. Breeds on elm.
Did You Know?
Has declined dramatically due to Dutch elm disease destroying its food plant across Europe.
Banded Chalcid Wasp
A robust chalcid wasp with enlarged hind femora bearing tooth-like projections. It parasitizes the pupae of various flies and lepidopterans.
Did You Know?
Its massively swollen hind legs, armed with sharp teeth, help it grip surfaces when drilling into host pupae.