Wandering Donkey Acraea
Common NameWandering Donkey Acraea
Scientific NameAcraea encedon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyAcraeinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatOpen grasslands, savannas, disturbed areas, forest edges, gardens
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsCommelina benghalensis, Commelina erecta, Fleurya aestuans
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are spiny and feed on various Commelina species. This species is notable for its mimicry of the African Monarch (*Danaus chrysippus*) and some populations exhibit parthenogenesis.
Identification TipsLook for the tawny orange coloration with black spots and the black marginal band with white spots. It can be confused with the African Monarch due to mimicry, but the wing venation and body shape differ.
Description
This butterfly has tawny orange wings covered with numerous black spots, and a distinct black marginal band adorned with small white spots on both forewings and hindwings.
