Erichson's White-Skipper
Common NameErichson's White-Skipper
Scientific NameHeliopetes ericetorum
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatOpen, dry areas, desert washes, chaparral, disturbed areas, fields
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Texas), Mexico, Central America
Host PlantsSphaeralcea, Malva, Abutilon
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, often creating shelters by folding leaves, and pupate in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall mottled brown and white pattern, with large, irregular white patches on the forewings. The underside of the hindwing is also mottled brown and white, lacking strong bands.
Description
This skipper has a mottled appearance with dark brown wings heavily marked with irregular white patches, particularly prominent on the forewings. Its body is hairy and grayish-brown.
