Tiger Palmfly
Common NameTiger Palmfly
Scientific NameElymnias nesaea
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, black, orange
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, open woodlands, areas with palms
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsArecaceae (palms), Calamus, Areca, Caryota
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with seasonal peaks
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae are typically green with head capsules bearing horns, feeding on palm leaves. Pupae are camouflaged, often green or brown.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive scalloped hindwing margin and the variable, cryptic mottled brown underside. The upperside, if seen, features dark wings with prominent orange or yellow tiger-like stripes.
Description
This butterfly displays a highly variable, mottled brown and dark brown underside with irregular lighter streaks, providing excellent camouflage. Its hindwings have a distinctly scalloped margin.
