Common Scarlet-eye
Common NameCommon Scarlet-eye
Scientific NameGangara thyrsis
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyCoeliadinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, orange-brown, red
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands, bamboo thickets, gardens
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host Plantsbamboo, coconut palm, fishtail palm
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, peak activity varies by locality
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green, often covered in a whitish waxy bloom, and construct leaf shelters. Pupation occurs in a cocoon made from leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size for a skipper, dark brown wings with prominent white forewing spots, a very hairy orange-brown body, and especially the bright red eyes. Its antennae have a distinct hook.
Description
A large, robust skipper with dark brown wings adorned with prominent translucent white spots on the forewings. It has a densely hairy, orange-brown body and distinctive bright scarlet-red eyes.
