Columbine Duskywing
Common NameColumbine Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis lucilius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsdark brown, gray, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, clearings, rocky areas, and gardens where columbine grows
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Georgia and west to the Great Plains
Host PlantsAquilegia canadensis (wild columbine)
Flight PeriodApril to September (2-3 broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with a dark head, feeding on columbine leaves. They overwinter as pupae or mature larvae in leaf shelters.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark, mottled appearance, small white spots on the forewing, and strong association with its host plant, wild columbine. Can be difficult to distinguish from other duskywings without close examination.
Description
A small, dark brown to grayish-black skipper with mottled wings and a scattering of small, translucent white spots on the forewings.
