Guava Skipper
Common NameGuava Skipper
Scientific NamePhocides polybius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsdark blue, black, orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (stray), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsPsidium guajava, Eugenia, Myrcianthes, Syzygium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; warmer months in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on leaves and creating leaf shelters before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the iridescent dark blue-green wings, two distinct orange-red spots on the forewings, and a noticeable white fringe on the hindwings. The head and thorax often show orange markings.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with iridescent dark blue-green wings and body, featuring prominent orange-red spots on the forewings and a white fringe along the hindwing margin.
