Bruised Skipper
Common NameBruised Skipper
Scientific NameAmblyscirtes aesculapius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, white
HabitatMoist woodlands, canebrakes, forest edges, stream banks
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Maryland south to Florida, west to eastern Texas and Oklahoma)
Host PlantsArundinaria gigantea, Arundinaria tecta
Flight PeriodApril to June, sometimes August to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host cane leaves. Larvae feed on cane, constructing shelters by rolling leaves, and overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark, 'bruised' forewing pattern with small white hyaline spots, particularly the three subapical spots. The overall dark brown coloration and association with cane habitats are also important.
Description
A small, dark brown skipper with a distinctive 'bruised' appearance on the forewings, featuring a blackish basal area, a lighter brown median band, and a few small, clear white spots. The hindwings are uniformly dark brown.
