Forest Hopper
Common NameForest Hopper
Scientific NamePardaleodes sator
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatForest edges, clearings, woodlands, dense bush
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsPennisetum species, various grasses
Flight PeriodYear-round, peaking in rainy seasons
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green or brown, often with a darker head, and feed on grasses, constructing leaf shelters. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon within a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the robust, moth-like body, overall dark brown coloration, small white hyaline spots on the forewing, and the characteristic hooked antennae. Its rapid, darting flight is also a key indicator of a skipper.
Description
A small to medium-sized, robust-bodied skipper with dark brown wings, featuring a few small white hyaline spots on the forewing. Its antennae are distinctly hooked at the tip.
