Laviana White-Skipper
Common NameLaviana White-Skipper
Scientific NameHeliopetes laviana
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)34
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, white
HabitatOpen areas, desert washes, dry canyons, scrubland, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas), Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
Host PlantsSphaeralcea, Malvastrum, Sida, Abutilon
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods), year-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, often creating leaf shelters, before pupating. Adults emerge after metamorphosis.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and gray pattern with a prominent white band across the forewing. The antennae are hooked at the tip, characteristic of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with mottled brown and gray wings, featuring a prominent white band on the forewing and a white fringe. Its body is stout and hairy, typical of skippers.
