Regent Skipper
Common NameRegent Skipper
Scientific NameEuschemon rafflesia
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEuschemoninae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, green
HabitatRainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and adjacent open areas
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales)
Host PlantsSmilax australis, Smilax glyciphylla
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on leaves, creating shelters by folding them, and pupate within a silken cocoon inside a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its striking black and yellow pattern, iridescent blue-green scales on the hindwings, and the presence of a frenulum (a moth-like wing coupling mechanism, unique among butterflies). The antennae are hooked at the tip, characteristic of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with black wings prominently marked with bright yellow spots and bands, and iridescent blue-green scales on the hindwings. Its body is also striped yellow and black.
