Mithrax Skipper
Common NameMithrax Skipper
Scientific NameChiomara mithrax
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas (USA), Mexico, Central America, and northern South America
Host PlantsMalpighia glabra, Malpighia emarginata, Malpighia punicifolia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; March to November in temperate parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars feed on *Malpighia* species, pupating into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown wings with the characteristic irregular, somewhat zigzag black markings on the forewings. Its robust body and rapid, darting flight are typical of skippers.
Description
The Mithrax Skipper is a medium-sized, robust butterfly with dark brown wings. Its forewings are marked with distinctive irregular black patches and some lighter tan mottling, while the hindwings are plainer brown.
