Namibian elvin

Introduction: Namibian Elvins ( Sarangesa gaerdesi) are endemic to Namibia. They settle on the leaves of food plants in the late afternoon with their wings held open, changing later to half-closed. Rapid flight patterns are common

Distribution: Discovered in Okahandja in 1938. Also found in the Ghaub Valley, Otavi, Tsumeb, Halali in Etosha National Park , Namib Desert , the dry river bed of the Swakop River.

Breeding/Larval food: !nara plants are members of the gourd or pumpkin family (Acanthosicyos horridus). Larvae and pupae are hidden in stitched-together leaves together with silk to form a shelter, found on the outer edge of a bush. Larvae is brownish grey and pupates within the shelter. Feeds on the small flowers of food plants.

Colouration: Resembles the leaves of host-plant leaves with darker leaves matching the ochreous colours perfectly.

On the wing: After the midsummer rains with June and August to October the main months.

Wingspan: Approx 30mm.