Manuel's Skipper
Common NameManuel's Skipper
Scientific NameAstraptes anaphus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsblue, brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, Florida), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsLonchocarpus, Piscidia, Robinia, various legumes
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in northern parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various legume host plants, constructing leaf shelters. They undergo pupation before emerging as the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsLook for the striking iridescent blue on the forewings with a prominent band of white spots. Like other skippers, it has a robust body and hooked antennae.
Description
This skipper features iridescent blue on the upperside of its forewings, adorned with a distinct band of white spots, contrasting with its dark brown hindwings and body.
