Vagrant
Common NameVagrant
Scientific NameVagrans egista
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsorange, brown, white, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, South Asia, Australia (including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, New Guinea)
Host PlantsFlacourtia indica, Flacourtia rukam, Smilax, Homalium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. The larvae are spiny, often green or brown, and the pupae are typically suspended by the cremaster.
Identification TipsKey features include the vibrant orange-brown coloration, the prominent pale bands across both forewings and hindwings, and the series of black spots, especially on the hindwings. The wing shape, with a somewhat pointed forewing apex, is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with rich orange-brown wings adorned with broad pale or white bands and distinct black spots. The underside mirrors the pattern but is typically paler.
