Afranius Duskywing
Common NameAfranius Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis afranius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsdark brown, gray, black
HabitatGrasslands, prairies, open woodlands, sagebrush flats, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (southern Canada, western US, northern Mexico)
Host PlantsLupinus spp., Vicia spp., Lotus spp.
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed within leaf shelters and overwinter as mature larvae or pupae.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall dark, mottled appearance with small, often indistinct, white spots on the forewing. The hindwing is typically unmarked. Antennae have a distinct hook at the tip.
Description
A medium-sized, dark brown skipper with mottled forewings, often featuring small white or grayish spots, and a generally plain hindwing.
