Huron Skipper
Common NameHuron Skipper
Scientific NameAtrytonopsis hianna
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, tan
HabitatPrairies, open woodlands, dry grassy fields, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast states
Host Plantsbig bluestem, little bluestem, other native grasses
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various grasses, creating shelters by tying leaves together. They overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the dull brownish-orange forewings with distinct pale hyaline spots. The underside of the hindwing is typically unmarked and a uniform tan-brown, and the antennae have a prominent hook (apiculus).
Description
A medium-sized skipper with a robust, hairy body. Its forewings are dull brownish-orange with several small, pale, translucent spots, while the hindwings are a more uniform brown.
