Lesser Dart
Common NameLesser Dart
Scientific NamePotanthus omaha
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatOpen grassy areas, forest clearings, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeOriental region (India, Southeast Asia, Southern China)
Host Plantsgrasses
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grass blades, creating shelters by rolling leaves. Pupation occurs within a silken cocoon in a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall tawny orange coloration, relatively plain wings with faint markings, and the characteristic hooked antennae of skippers. The underside can be paler with subtle patterns.
Description
A small, robust skipper with tawny orange wings marked with darker brown veins and diffuse patches. Its body is hairy and orange-brown.
