Colon Swift
Common NameColon Swift
Scientific NamePanoquina sylvicola
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, golden-brown, white
HabitatOpen areas, disturbed habitats, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern North America (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Central America, Caribbean, South America
Host Plantssugarcane, Guinea grass, various Poaceae species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical areas
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae are typically green with a darker head, constructing shelters by rolling leaves. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon within a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for its overall dull brown coloration, the specific pattern of small white spots on the forewing (often 3-4 spots in a diagonal line), and its characteristic swift, low flight. The antennae have a distinct hook.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with a robust body and dull golden-brown to dark brown wings, featuring a few small, translucent white spots on the forewing.
