Canna Skipper (Calpodes ethlius)

Identification

The butterfly also known as the leaf roller. Fore-wing is long and pointed, hind-wing is lobed. Upper-side is brown-black with large translucent spots on both fore-wing and hind-wing. Underside is red-brown; hind-wing has 3 or 4 cream spots. 13/4 - 2 3/8 inches (4.5 - 6.1 cm).

The caterpillar has a dark green body that is semi-transparent with a dark brown almost black head. Older caterpillars have an orange head with a dark triangle on the frontal region.

Habitat

Gardens and residential areas

Food

Caterpillars are specific to the canna family. The butterfly feeds on nectar from large white or pale yellow flowers

Life Cycle

Adults have a very fast flight and are strong migrants. Females lay group of eggs on the upperside of the canna leaf. Caterpillars usually spend the day in shelters of rolled leaves and emerge after dark to eat leaves.

Remarks

Resident