Golden-banded Skipper
Common NameGolden-banded Skipper
Scientific NameEpargyreus tmolis
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern North America (southern Texas, Arizona), Central America, South America
Host PlantsLonchocarpus, various legumes (Fabaceae)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods year-round in tropical areas; spring to fall in temperate zones
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green with a darker head, constructing leaf shelters. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark brown wings, the large orange patch on the hindwing underside, and the pattern of hyaline spots on the forewing. It can be distinguished from similar skippers by this combination.
Description
A medium-sized, robust skipper with dark brown wings, featuring a prominent orange patch on the hindwing underside and several small, translucent white spots on the forewing.
