Two Pip Policeman
Common NameTwo Pip Policeman
Scientific NameCoeliades forestan
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyCoeliadinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, black, orange
HabitatForest edges, savannas, woodlands, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, Arabian Peninsula
Host PlantsAcacia, Combretum, Lonchocarpus, Robinia, Millettia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a dark head, and pupation occurs in a loose cocoon spun among leaves.
Identification TipsKey features include the large white patch on the forewing with three black spots, the orange-brown hairy head and thorax, and the distinctly banded black and white abdomen.
Description
A robust skipper with dark brown wings featuring a prominent white patch on the forewing and three distinct black spots. Its head and thorax are covered in orange-brown hairs, contrasting with its strikingly black and white banded abdomen.
