Ocherous Skipper
Common NameOcherous Skipper
Scientific NameAtrytonopsis ovinia
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, ocherous, white
HabitatArid grasslands, desert scrub, open woodlands, canyons
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, southern California) and Mexico
Host PlantsBouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua hirsuta, various grama grasses
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grass blades, creating shelters by tying leaves together, and pupate within similar leaf shelters.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall dull ocherous-brown coloration, the specific pattern of small white spots on the forewing, and the robust body with hooked antennae typical of skippers.
Description
A medium-sized, robust skipper with a dull ocherous-brown body and wings, featuring a few small, distinct white spots on the forewing.
