Hainan Palm Dart
Common NameHainan Palm Dart
Scientific NameTelicota hainana
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown
HabitatOpen areas, forest edges, gardens, palm plantations
Geographic RangeHainan (China), southern China, parts of Indochina
Host Plantsvarious palm species (Arecaceae)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in tropical areas
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid on host palm leaves, larvae feed on the foliage, and pupation occurs before the adult butterfly emerges.
Identification TipsLook for its robust body, hooked antennae, and the characteristic pattern of bright orange-yellow patches on a dark brown background, especially on the upperside of the wings.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with a robust body and hooked antennae. Its wings are dark brown with prominent, irregular orange-yellow markings, creating a distinct spotted pattern.
