Inca Skipper
Common NameInca Skipper
Scientific NameHeliopetes arsalte
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatOpen fields, disturbed areas, forest edges, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, Arizona, Florida), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsSida spp., Malvastrum spp., Abutilon spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green with a dark head, feeding on the leaves. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among leaves.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic hooked antennae and robust body of a skipper. The dull brown coloration with variable white markings on the wings, especially the underside, helps distinguish it. Its rapid, darting flight is also a key indicator.
Description
A small to medium-sized skipper with dull brown wings, often featuring white spots or bands on the forewings and hindwings, particularly on the underside. The body is robust and brown.
