Chequered Lancer
Common NameChequered Lancer
Scientific NamePlastingia naga
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyCoeliadinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatForest edges, clearings, secondary forests, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsSmilax spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on Smilax species, often creating leaf shelters. Pupation occurs within a cocoon made from leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking black and white chequered pattern on the wings, particularly the large white spots, and the characteristic hooked antennae of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown to black wings heavily marked with prominent white, somewhat rectangular spots on both forewings and hindwings. Its body is dark, and the antennae have distinctive hooked clubs.
