Purple Cerulean Jamides phaseli

This tropical beauty is found exclusively in northeastern Australia, making it a special and relatively localized find for enthusiastic butterfly observers. From Cape York's tropical tip all the way down to southeastern Queensland, and across to the Northern Territory and the remote Torres Strait Islands, this butterfly commands the rich habitats of Australia's most diverse bioregion.

Its deep azure coloring and delicate wing patterns make every sighting worth celebrating, and its limited range means only dedicated Australian butterfly watchers are likely to encounter this gem. The species was formally described as recently as 1889, showing how much we still have to learn about butterfly diversity across the globe.