Cape Autumn Widow
Common NameCape Autumn Widow
Scientific NameParalethe dendrophilus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellow, black
HabitatAfromontane forests, forest edges, fynbos, and mountainous areas
Geographic RangeSouth Africa (Western Cape, Eastern Cape)
Host PlantsEhrharta, Pentaschistis, various grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodMarch to June (peaking April-May)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grasses, and pupation occurs in a chrysalis.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown ground color contrasted with distinct yellow-orange patches and a clear row of black, orange-ringed eyespots with white pupils on both forewings and hindwings. Its flight period in autumn is also a key characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings adorned with irregular yellow-orange patches and a series of prominent black eyespots, each ringed with orange and containing a white pupil.
