Great Swift
Common NameGreat Swift
Scientific NamePelopidas thrax
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatOpen grassy areas, gardens, agricultural fields, forest edges
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, parts of Europe (Mediterranean region)
Host Plantssugarcane, rice, maize, elephant grass
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout warmer months (year-round in tropics)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on grasses. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon among leaves.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark brown coloration with prominent white spots, particularly a series of post-discal spots on the forewing, and its characteristic swift, darting flight. The hooked antennae are also a key skipper feature.
Description
A medium-sized, robust skipper with dark brown wings adorned with several small, distinct white spots on both forewings and hindwings, and large reddish-brown eyes.
