Eliena Skipper
Common NameEliena Skipper
Scientific NameGegenes pumilio
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, white, yellow
HabitatDry grasslands, rocky areas, coastal dunes, open scrubland, cultivated areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Arabian Peninsula, parts of Asia (east to India)
Host PlantsPhragmites australis, Saccharum officinarum, Pennisetum clandestinum, Hyparrhenia hirta
Flight PeriodApril to October (multi-brooded in warmer regions)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on various grass species. Larvae are green with a dark dorsal line and a black head, feeding on the host grasses before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its dark brown coloration, robust body, and the characteristic row of white spots on the underside of the hindwing. Its antennae have a distinctive hooked club.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings, often appearing duller on the upperside. The underside of the hindwing typically features a distinctive row of white spots.
