Narrow-banded Velvet Bob
Common NameNarrow-banded Velvet Bob
Scientific NamePardaleodes sator
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings, secondary growth
Geographic RangeWest and Central Africa
Host PlantsPoaceae (grasses)
Flight PeriodYear-round (with peaks depending on local rainfall)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host grasses, larvae feed on leaves, pupate, and then emerge as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the narrow, bright orange band on the dark forewings, robust body, and hooked antennae characteristic of skippers.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings, prominently marked with a bright, narrow orange band across the forewings.
