Esmeralda Longtail
Common NameEsmeralda Longtail
Scientific NameUrbanus esmeraldus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, green, translucent white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, northern South America
Host Plantslegumes
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, and pupation typically occurs in a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the iridescent green head and thorax, dark brown wings with a distinct band of translucent white spots on the forewing, and the prominent long tails on the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings featuring a band of translucent white spots on the forewing and long, slender tails on the hindwings. Its head and thorax often display an iridescent green sheen.
