Arizona Powdered-Skipper
Common NameArizona Powdered-Skipper
Scientific NameSystasea pulverulenta
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, grey
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert washes, canyons, rocky hillsides
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, southern California, Nevada, Utah) and Mexico
Host PlantsSphaeralcea, Abutilon
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, often creating leaf shelters, and pupate in a loose cocoon. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled, 'powdered' brown and tan appearance, small, irregular pale spots on the forewing, and the characteristic skipper antennae with hooked clubs. Can be distinguished from similar species by subtle pattern details and geographic range.
Description
A small, mottled brown skipper with a 'powdered' appearance, featuring irregular patches of tan, grey, and darker brown, often with small, pale bluish-white spots on the forewings.
