Mottled Duskywing
Common NameMottled Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis martialis
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, rocky areas, prairies, powerline cuts
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and the Great Plains.
Host PlantsNew Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus), Red Root (Ceanothus herbaceus)
Flight PeriodApril to September (two broods, varies by region)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on leaves and constructing shelters from silk and leaves. They overwinter as mature larvae or pupae within a leaf nest.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown mottling, which is often more pronounced and contrasting than in other duskywing species. The overall 'busy' and mottled appearance, combined with the lack of prominent white spots (compared to species like Horace's Duskywing), helps distinguish it. Association with Ceanothus host plants is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small, robust skipper with a cryptic, mottled pattern of dark brown, reddish-brown, and grayish patches across its wings. The forewings often show irregular dark markings and a few small, indistinct white spots near the apex.
