Julia's Skipper
Common NameJulia's Skipper
Scientific NameNastra julia
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatOpen grassy areas, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California), Mexico, Central America
Host PlantsBermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, Johnson grass
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grass blades, creating shelters by tying leaves together. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, plain brown coloration on both upper and undersides, and the general lack of distinctive spots or markings common in other skipper species.
Description
A small, plain brown skipper with a robust body and relatively small, unmarked wings, often seen nectaring on flowers.
