White-patched Skipper
Common NameWhite-patched Skipper
Scientific NameTheagenes albiplaga
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsLeguminosae (Fabaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with increased activity during warmer, wetter months
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike other skippers, it undergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically cylindrical, often green or brown, and construct shelters from leaves.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the large, bright white patch on the hindwings, which is clearly visible even when the butterfly is at rest with wings open. The dark brown body and forewings provide a strong contrast.
Description
This is a dark brown skipper characterized by a prominent, large oval white patch on the hindwings, which contrasts sharply with its otherwise dark and subtly patterned forewings.
