Spotted Grass Dart
Common NameSpotted Grass Dart
Scientific NameTaractrocera papyria
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, yellow
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, gardens, urban parks
Geographic RangeAustralia, New Guinea
Host PlantsPoaceae (various grasses)
Flight PeriodAll year in warmer regions, multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host grasses. Larvae feed on the grass blades, forming shelters by rolling leaves, and pupate in a silken cocoon among the foliage.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, robust body, and the characteristic orange-brown wings with prominent yellowish spots. Its antennae are typically hooked at the tip, a common feature of skippers.
Description
A small, stout-bodied skipper with orange-brown wings featuring a distinctive pattern of yellowish-white spots on both forewings and hindwings.
