Tawny Coster
Common NameTawny Coster
Scientific NameAcraea terpsicore
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen grasslands, savannas, forest edges, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, Arabian Peninsula, South Asia, Southeast Asia
Host PlantsAdenia, Passiflora, Mikania, Laportea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plants. Larvae are spiny, typically black with yellow markings. Pupae are smooth and often mottled brown or cream.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic tawny orange wings with black spots on the forewings and the black margin containing orange spots on the hindwings. Its flight is typically slow and deliberate.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright tawny orange wings, featuring several black spots on the forewings and a distinct black border with a row of orange spots on the hindwings. Its body is black with white markings.
