Gilbert's Flasher
Common NameGilbert's Flasher
Scientific NameAstraptes gilberti
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsblue, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil)
Host PlantsInga, Lonchocarpus, Pithecellobium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green or yellowish with a dark head, feeding on leaves before pupating in a silken cocoon or leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the striking iridescent blue coloration on the body and forewing bases, contrasting with the dark brown outer wings, and the robust body and hooked antennae characteristic of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings and a prominent, iridescent electric blue patch covering the thorax and the basal half of the forewings.
