Pale Sailor
Common NamePale Sailor
Scientific NameNeptis sappho
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black, orange
HabitatForest edges, clearings, open woodlands, riverine forests
Geographic RangeEastern Europe, temperate Asia (e.g., Russia, China, Korea, Japan)
Host PlantsSpiraea, Crataegus, Lonicera, Prunus
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves and typically overwinter before pupating into a chrysalis.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive white bands on a dark background, particularly the broad white band on the hindwing, and its characteristic 'sailing' flight pattern.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with white wings marked by broad brown and black bands, featuring a prominent white band across the hindwing. The underside displays similar patterns with warmer brown and orange hues.
