Lace-winged Roadside-Skipper
Common NameLace-winged Roadside-Skipper
Scientific NameAmblyscirtes aesculapius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, open woods, areas with cane thickets
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, from Maryland south to Florida and west to eastern Texas
Host PlantsArundinaria (cane)
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various grasses, primarily cane (*Arundinaria* species). They construct shelters by tying leaves together. Pupation occurs within these shelters, and adults emerge after metamorphosis.
Identification TipsLook for the unique translucent white spots and streaks on a dark brown background, especially the 'lace-like' pattern on the hindwings. Like other skippers, it has a robust body and hooked antennae.
Description
A small, dark brown skipper with a stout, hairy body and distinctive translucent white markings on its wings, giving a 'lace-like' appearance. The underside of the hindwing often shows a more prominent pattern.
