Water Snow Flat
Common NameWater Snow Flat
Scientific NameTagiades litigiosa
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatForests, forest edges, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsDioscorea alata, Dioscorea bulbifera, Dioscorea pentaphylla, Smilax
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green and construct leaf shelters, pupating within a cocoon made of leaves and silk.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive two-toned appearance: dark brown forewings with white spots and predominantly white hindwings with a dark brown border and marginal spots. Rests with wings held partially open, characteristic of 'flats'.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown forewings adorned with several white spots, and contrasting white hindwings featuring a broad dark brown margin and a series of dark spots.
