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Indian skipper

Indian skipper

Spialia galba

A species of Grizzled skippers, Also known as Indian grizzled skipper

Adorned with a mosaic of tawny and russet on its wings, indian skipper flutters through the air in a rapid, darting flight, indicative of its family's flight style. This adept flier frequents arid scrublands and rocky terrain, sipping nectar from a variety of flowering plants. Caterpillars exhibit a dietary shift, starting with leaves from the malvaceae genus before metamorphosis. Seasonal appearances of this species change subtly in coloration, reflecting an adaptation to their environment and climate.

General Info About Indian skipper
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Attributes of Indian skipper
Habitat
forest; hinterland; savannah; woodland; park; garden; wasteland
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lavandula (lavender), nectar from thymus (thyme), nectar from echinacea species, nectar from trifolium (clover), nectar from asclepias (milkweed)
Larva Food Source
Various species of xanthium (cocklebur), acanthospermum, alternanthera caracasana, alternanthera pungens, blechum pyramidatum
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Indian skipper is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Indian skipper is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Indian skipper feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Indian skipper
It is found in South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia.
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Distribution Area of Indian skipper
Sri Lanka, India, the Shan states, northern Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Hainan
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Life Cycle of Indian skipper
Egg The egg phase for indian skipper is marked by a stationary period that begins with the egg's discreet placement on host plants. Small and often camouflaged, this developmental stage is characterized by a hardened outer shell to protect the developing larva inside.
Larva Upon hatching, the larval indian skipper goes through several growth spurts known as instars. Initially, they're small and voracious eaters, focusing on consuming leaves they were laid upon. As they grow, their color and pattern may change, preparing them for the next transformation.
Pupal The larva of indian skipper transitions into a quiescent pupal stage within a chrysalis. During this time, it undergoes a drastic metamorphosis. The chrysalis may exhibit camouflage or deterrent patterns, while inside, the body structure is completely reorganized for adult life.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult indian skipper's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. Their body is fully formed, showcasing vibrant colors and patterns, hardened exoskeleton, and the adult is highly mobile, focusing on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Indian skipper
2.5 - 2.5 cm
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Interesting Facts About Indian skipper
The indian skipper can thermoregulate by shivering, using muscular activity to warm up before taking flight in colder temperatures.
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Scientific Classification of Indian skipper
Tips for Finding Indian skipper
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Youth Habitat of Indian skipper
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Indian skipper
Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Indian skipper
Adult indian skipper are typically attracted to nectar-rich flowers, so setting up a station with a variety of blooming plants could serve as an effective lure.
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Habitat Preferences of Indian skipper Through Different Life Stages
The larval stage of indian skipper typically resides on or near their host plants, found along sunny, flowery places where these plants grow, such as grasslands, fields, and meadows. Searching for these caterpillars involves inspecting the host plants for signs of feeding or spotting the larvae themselves on the underside of leaves. Pupae are often found in more sheltered positions close to the ground, such as in plant debris or earthy crevices. The search for pupae would entail careful examination of these areas. Adult indian skipper generally frequent areas rich in nectar sources, like flower gardens, hedgerows, and occasionally even urban parks, where they can be observed fluttering close to the ground while feeding or basking in the sun on vegetation.
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How and Where Can You Find Indian skipper at Different Life Stages
Egg Indian skipper eggs are laid singly on or near the host plants. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves, especially the undersides, of known host plants for small, round eggs.
Larva Larval indian skipper can be observed on or near their food plants. Look for chewing damage on leaves and search in the immediate area for the caterpillars. They are sometimes hidden during the day, so check under leaves and near the base of the plant.
Pupal Indian skipper pupae may be attached to the host plant or amongst leaf litter on the ground. To find them, examine the stems and leaves of host plants and sift through nearby leaf litter where they may be camouflaged.
Adult Adult indian skipper are likely to be found in areas with abundant flowering plants, as they feed on nectar. To observe adult indian skipper, visit these areas during warm, sunny weather and look for them basking in the sun or feeding.
Are Indian skipper harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Indian skipper
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Indian skipper are known for their role in pollination. They are attracted to flowers primarily by their color and shape, seeking out pollen as a food source. Indian skipper facilitate the transfer of pollen as they move from blossom to blossom, unintentionally assisting in the plants' reproductive process.
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