Golden Banded-Skipper
Common NameGolden Banded-Skipper
Scientific NameAutochton cellus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)52.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, golden yellow, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, canyons, riparian areas
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico
Host PlantsRobinia pseudoacacia, Amorpha fruticosa, Dalea, Wisteria
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding within leaf shelters before pupating in a cocoon made of silk and leaves.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive broad golden-yellow band on the dark brown forewing, the robust body, and the hooked antennae characteristic of skippers. The underside is similar but often duller.
Description
This medium-sized skipper has dark brown wings with a prominent, broad golden-yellow band across the forewing and a few small white spots near the apex. Its body is robust and hairy, typical of skippers.
