Continental Swift
Common NameContinental Swift
Scientific NameBorbo cinnara
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatGrasslands, open fields, agricultural areas, gardens
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Asia, parts of Africa
Host Plantsgrasses, rice, sugarcane, bamboo, maize
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods in warmer climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on grass leaves. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon among leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include plain brown wings with small white forewing spots, a robust body, and characteristic hooked antennae. Differentiation from similar species often requires detailed examination.
Description
A small to medium-sized skipper with plain brown wings, featuring a few small, distinct white hyaline spots on the forewing. Its body is robust and hairy, and its antennae are hooked.
