Pale Small-branded Swift
Common NamePale Small-branded Swift
Scientific NamePelopidas subochracea
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, white
HabitatOpen grassy areas, forest clearings, gardens, agricultural lands
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsImperata cylindrica, Saccharum officinarum, various grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on leaves. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among leaves.
Identification TipsLook for its overall dull yellowish-brown coloration and the presence of small, pale white spots on the forewing, which can sometimes be faint. The robust body and hooked antennae are typical skipper features. Males have a small, dark scent brand (stigma) on the forewing.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dull yellowish-brown wings, typically featuring a few small, pale white spots on the forewing. Its body is robust and hairy, characteristic of skippers.
