Dark-patched Skipper
Common NameDark-patched Skipper
Scientific NameProblema byssus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown
HabitatOpen grassy areas, wet meadows, bogs, marshes, stream banks
Geographic RangeEastern United States
Host PlantsSwitchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are caterpillars that feed on various grasses, primarily switchgrass. Pupation occurs before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsLook for its overall dull brown coloration and the presence of darker, somewhat indistinct patches or streaks on the forewings. The antennae have distinct hooked clubs, typical of skippers. Often found in grassy, wet habitats.
Description
A small to medium-sized, robust skipper with dull brown wings, often featuring darker, somewhat indistinct patches or streaks on the forewings. Its body is stout, and antennae have characteristic hooked clubs.
