Hoary Edge
Common NameHoary Edge
Scientific NameAchalarus lyciades
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, gray
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, open fields, clearings
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantstick-trefoils (Desmodium spp.), bush clovers (Lespedeza spp.), beggar's-lice (Desmodium canadense)
Flight PeriodMay to September (two broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, creating shelters by folding or tying leaves together, and pupate within a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive large white patch on the underside of the hindwing, which contrasts with the otherwise dark brown and mottled wings. The forewings also have a few small, translucent spots.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown, mottled wings, featuring a prominent white patch on the underside of the hindwing and small translucent spots on the forewings.
