Dusted Skipper
Common NameDusted Skipper
Scientific NameAtrytonopsis hianna
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, gray
HabitatDry open woodlands, pine barrens, prairies, savannas
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast
Host Plantslittle bluestem, various other grasses
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various grasses, particularly little bluestem, and pupate in a silken shelter at the base of the host plant. There is typically one brood per year.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown wings with a few small white spots on the forewing and the prominent, frosted gray-white patch on the underside of the hindwing. Its antennae are hooked at the tip, characteristic of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings, small white spots on the forewing, and a distinctive frosted or 'dusted' gray-white patch on the hindwing underside. The body is robust and hairy.
