Malay Cruiser
Common NameMalay Cruiser
Scientific NameVagrans egista
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens, often near streams
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, New Guinea, and parts of Australia
Host PlantsFlacourtia rukam, Scolopia spp., Homalium spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically spiny, often green or brown, feeding on host plants from the Flacourtiaceae family. Pupae are cryptic, resembling a dead leaf or twig.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its bright orange coloration, prominent wavy black lines, and scalloped wing margins. Often seen basking with wings open, revealing its striking dorsal pattern.
Description
A medium-sized, vibrant orange butterfly with intricate black wavy lines and small black spots across its wings. The wing margins are distinctly scalloped.
