Eastern Iris-skipper
Common NameEastern Iris-skipper
Scientific NameAmblyscirtes aesculapius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellowish-white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, swamps, bogs, often near irises
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (southern New Jersey south to Florida, west to eastern Texas and Oklahoma)
Host PlantsIris versicolor, Iris virginica
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on iris leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, creating shelters, and overwinter as pupae or mature larvae.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown wings with distinct yellowish-white rectangular spots on the forewings. The underside of the hindwing is typically uniform dark brown, lacking prominent markings, and it is often found near its Iris host plants.
Description
A small, dark brown skipper with prominent yellowish-white rectangular spots on the forewings and a paler, often uniform, underside.
