Arizona Skipper
Common NameArizona Skipper
Scientific NameSystasea zampa
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, white
HabitatArid canyons, washes, rocky hillsides, desert scrub
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico
Host PlantsSphaeralcea (globemallow) species, other Malvaceae (mallow family)
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on mallow leaves, often creating shelters by folding leaves. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its dark, mottled wings with distinct white spots on the forewings. It has the characteristic hooked antennae of a skipper and a rapid, darting flight. Often rests with wings spread flat.
Description
A small, dark brown to grey skipper with a mottled appearance and prominent white or translucent spots on the forewings. Its body is hairy and dark.
