Orange-banded Gem
Common NameOrange-banded Gem
Scientific NamePerichares philetes
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Mexico through Central America to northern South America
Host Plantspalms, grasses
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with a dark head, often constructing leaf shelters. Pupation occurs within a silken cocoon or leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, bright orange band that crosses both forewings and hindwings on a dark brown background, along with small white spots on the hindwing margin.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings featuring a prominent, broad orange band extending across both forewings and hindwings, and small white spots along the hindwing margin.
