Hobomok Skipper
Common NameHobomok Skipper
Scientific NamePoanes hobomok
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsorange, brown, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, clearings, meadows, open fields
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to Georgia and west to the Great Plains
Host PlantsPanic Grass (Panicum spp.), Wood-reed (Cinna arundinacea)
Flight PeriodLate April to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grasses, overwinter as partially grown caterpillars, and pupate in spring.
Identification TipsMales are mostly orange-brown with dark borders. Females have two forms: a common orange-brown form similar to males, and a rarer dark brown 'Pocahontas' form with distinct white-yellow spots. The prominent rectangular yellow patch on the hindwing underside is a key feature.
Description
This small to medium-sized skipper has an orange-brown forewing with darker margins and a prominent rectangular yellow patch on the hindwing underside. Its body is robust and hairy, typical of skippers.
