[1][2] It was described by John Percy Moore based on specimens collected from Sarawak, Borneo.

[2] Haemadipsa picta occur on bushes and grasses about 1 metre or higher above the ground in moist forests.

They are fast and actively moving, and even known to fall onto hikers from higher bushes or leaves.

The bites of this species are comparatively painful and difficult to heal, hence the common name "stinging land leech.

There is also a white or pale yellowish longitudinal marginal stripe with dark-spotted borders.