Palm tree night fighter

Introduction: The stream-lined wings and body of Palm-tree night-fighters ( Zophopetes dysmephila) give them the appearance of a Hawk Moth. The rounded wing tips are an aide in identification, which make a 'clapping' noise in flight.

Distribution: From Rundu west along the Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip) to Victoria Falls.

Breeding/Larval food: Single or small groups of eggs are laid on a food plant leaf, often on a wild date-palm (Phoenix reclinata).

Colouration: Females have a distinctive diagonal white stripe on the hind wing underside. There are noticeable white tips on the antennae and white margins on the wing tips.

On the wing: Throughout the year.

Wingspan: 45mm.